Chester Walter Grabowski's Obituary
Chester Grabowski, 94, of Lakeland, Florida, passed peacefully at his home on July 15, 2023. He was the youngest son born to Francis and Eleanor (Mydlo) Grabowski in Binghamton, New York, on August 2, 1928. This past June he celebrated 69 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Helen. His sense of humor, generosity, and quick wit will be remembered by all who knew him.
He will truly be missed beyond words by his family.
Chet enlisted in the Navy after high school so that he could both serve his country and see the world. For many years he wore a St. Christopher pendant that he bought while visiting one of the ports of call. After graduating from Harpur College in 1952, he embarked on a successful 35-year career with IBM.
Chet was an avid golfer, enjoyed relaxing at “Camelot” – his cottage on Brantingham Lake in the Adirondacks - and spending time with his seven grandchildren. He had quite a sense of humor and enjoyed making people laugh, even creating and performing skits for the Cypress Lakes talent shows. His family will fondly remember their visits to Florida after his retirement, visiting the attractions and relaxing at the pool. Also remembered will be Chet’s fondness for the holidays with his family, in particular the vast array of gifts, as well as traditional Polish foods like homemade pierogies.
Chet and Helen shared a long life devoted to one another and lived it to the fullest, especially in retirement at Cypress Lakes. They were fixtures at the community’s dances and Bingo nights, and often were out in the Lakeland and Orlando area enjoying their favorite activity: polkas. Other fun excursions included trips to Las Vegas and, later, Biloxi casinos, where Chet always seemed to come out a winner. Although they had many friends, they especially treasured early evening golf outings - just the two of them, playing three or four holes before dusk.
Chet was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Besides his beloved wife of 69 years, he is survived by three children: Neil and wife Monice; Ellen; Carol and husband Mark: and seven grandchildren, Jessi, Christen, Nathan, Janine, David, Lisa, and Alina. He is also survived by nine great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Francis and Eleanor, Chet was predeceased by his seven brothers and sisters: Mary, Stanley, Sophie, Walter, Helen, Theresa, and Louise.
A Mass of Resurrection will take place on Wednesday, July 26, at 10:30 am at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 820 Marcum Rd., Lakeland, Florida 33809. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Chet’s memory may be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church at 820 Marcum Rd., Lakeland, FL 33809, or to the charity of your choice.
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