Chester John Marszalek

Chester J. Marszalek, affectionately known as Chet, passed away on July 1, 2025 at the age of 74 in Rochelle, Illinois. Born on September 21, 1950, in Chicago to Chester Marszalek Sr. and Rose (Romanek), Chet grew up on the city's South Side near the stockyards-a place that shaped his work ethic, quick wit, and trademark dry sense of humor. Chet's life was defined by curiosity, resilience, and perseverance. He had an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age and worked his way up during the early days of telephone communications with fiber optics. While working full-time, he attended night school and earned his master's degree in engineering-a testament to his determination and lifelong love of learning. He dedicated over 30 years of his career to Ameritech before stepping back due to health challenges. He continued his working career in many different ways- as a certified energy rater and licensed insurance agent in Illinois and Iowa. He also found great joy in history, theology, and gathering an endless trove of random facts. On October 24, 1998, Chet married Paula, the love of his life and closest companion. Together, they had a beautiful blended family with their children: John, Kendall, and Ashley. Paula remained by Chet's side with continued devotion, especially during his long journey through illness. Chet had a soft spot for his dogs, often found with a furry friend curled up on his lap-particularly his favorites, Rocky and Atlas. Chet's famously dry humor was a signature part of who he was. His holiday phone calls-complete with his iconic turkey gobble and Santa's jolly laugh-will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. In the past decade, Chet experienced a spiritual renewal as he reconnected with his faith, becoming a devoted member of the Greek Orthodox Church. His conviction to prayer and his relationship with God brought him peace and strength. Chet is survived by his beloved wife, Paula Marszalek; his children: John (Beth) Marszalek, Kendall (Jake) Vogeler, and Ashley Powell; and his treasured grandchildren: Joseph, Loretto, Evangeline, Lucas, and Jamie. He was looking forward to meeting his sixth grandchild expected in October. He also leaves behind his dear sister, Rosann Clabough. The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Serenity Palliative Care and Hospice for their kindness, compassion, and support throughout the last two and a half years. In honor of Chet's memory, donations may be made to Serenity Hospice and Home, Oregon, IL. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025 from 2:00 - 4:00 P.M. at Unger- Horner Funeral Home, 400 N 6th Street, Rochelle, IL. Church service will be held Monday, July 7 at 10:00 A.M. at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 320 South 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL. Burial will be at Elmwood Cememtery in River Grove, IL. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book. Chet's presence will be missed beyond words-but his laughter, faith, and quiet strength will live on in those who loved him. To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Chester John Marszalek, please click here to visit our sympathy store.