Chester A. "Chet" Zadra

Chester A. 'Chet' Zadra

Chester A. "Chet" Zadra passed away on February 3, 2025, at the age of 84, at The Lutheran Home Belle Plaine in Minnesota.

Born on February 26, 1940, in Alexandria, Minn., to Mildred Zadra (née Harwood) and Chester Batista Zadra, he moved to Shakopee in 1978 with his family.

Chet proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1963, achieving the rank of E3 Airman First Class. During his service, he was among the first 90 Americans deployed to Vietnam, serving as a U.N. Peacekeeper. He went on to complete four tours during the Vietnam War.

On July 24, 1965, Chet married Mary Ann Repar. He had a successful career as a legendary salesman at Ziegler, selling Caterpillar heavy equipment, until his retirement.

Chet enjoyed woodworking, home improvement, spending time with his family, and inventing new swear words. He was a history buff and had strong opinions-he disliked fellowshipping, foreign cars, and letting the gas gauge fall below three-quarters full.

After retirement, Chet joined his son David at Zadra's Small Engine Service in downtown Shakopee and later worked as the Tool Librarian at RTL Construction.

Chet will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Mary Ann; sons, Anthony (Cree) of West St. Paul and David (Dulcey) of Shakopee; granddaughters, Izabella and Celia; brothers, David Zadra of Virginia and Jeff Zadra (Ann) of Biwabik; and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

He was predeceased by his brother, Michael Zadra in 2009 and his parents.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at McNearney-Schmidt Funeral Home in Shakopee, Minnesota. A reception will follow. All are welcome to attend and visit until 7:00 p.m. Condolences can be sent C/O McNeareny-Schmidt: 1220 3rd Avenue East, Shakopee, MN 55379.