Obituary of Chester L. McLain

Minerva: Chester “Chet” L. McLain, 88, of State Route 28N, passed away peacefully, Sunday, January 12, 2014 at Adirondack Tri-County Nursing & Rehabilitation Center following a brief illness. Born February 4, 1925 in Madisonville, PA, he was the son of the late Robert and Grace (Chambers) McLain. Chet enlisted in the US Army and served in the European Theater including seeing action at the Battle of the Bulge. During his second tour of duty, he proudly instructed many at West Point before his honorable discharge. Chet was a dedicated employee at IBM in Poughkeepsie for over 30 years, before retiring in 1987. Chester married Charlotte Moos 1983 in Red Oaks Mills. The couple retired to Minerva in 1988. Chet was a volunteer fireman with Roosevelt 2 Co. in Hyde Park. He was a long time Scout Master with the Boy Scouts of America, where he received many awards for his dedicated service. He was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, beginning at Shekomeko Lodge #458 before relocating to the Adirondacks, where he transferred to Warrensburgh Lodge #425 F&AM, and was also a member of the Royal Arch Masons. He was a certified with the National Ski Patrol on Gore Mountain, and enjoyed his time spent on the mountain. Besides spending time with his family, Chet had a great passion for gardening; enjoying his vegetable garden. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Bud, Bobby, Lloyd, and a sister, Betty. Chester is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Charlotte McLain of Minerva; his sons, Don McLain and his wife, Roz, of Wappingers Falls, and Gerald McLain and his wife, Sandy, of Garden Valley, ID; a step-daughter, Deborah Panebianco and her husband, Gary; his siblings, June Barosky, Gene McLain, and Evelyn Smith. He also leaves behind several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. At Chester’s request there will be no calling hours or formal services scheduled. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations in Chester’s memory to a charity of one’s choice. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook and condolences.