Chester “Chet” E. Kudej, age 76, of Shelton, entered into eternal rest on December 12, 2023, in his home. He was born on June 8, 1947, in Derby, son of the late Stanley and Cecylia (Pczonka) Kudej.
Chester proudly served his country with the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He worked as an expediter with Sikorsky Aircraft for 45 years until his retirement. Chester had an incredible passion for outdoor gardening. He had over 150 tomato plants at one point and would share his tomatoes with family. His grandchildren inherited his love of gardening and they would proudly show him their tomatoes, especially if they were bigger or more red than his. Chester was known for his sense of humor, always cracking a joke no matter what trial or tribulation he was going through. He was also a proud member of the Adriatic Machegian Club since 1996.
Chester is survived by his daughter, Hope Kudej, grandchildren, Zackary Muller and Brooke Muller, brother Michael Kudej, and his buddy Sparky. He was predeceased by his two brothers, Stanley Kudej and Gregory Kudej Sr..
Friends are invited to greet the family on Monday, December 18, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home, 253 Elizabeth Street, Derby. On Tuesday, his funeral procession will leave the funeral home at 11:30 a.m. for his Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 p.m. at St. Michael Church, 75 Derby Ave., Derby. Burial will follow at St. Michaels Cemetery in Ansonia.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Chester’s memory to Compassus Hospice, www.compassuslivingfoundation.org/give/, or Compassus Living Foundation
503 N. Euclid Avenue, Suite 9E, Bay City, MI 48706.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.adzimafh.com.
