Chester Robert Goldsberry

Chester Robert Goldsberry

Cedar Rapids

Chester Robert Goldsberry, 88, of Cedar Rapids, died Tuesday, May 13, 2025, peacefully in his home. Friends may visit with the family, Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with services following at Teahen Funeral Home. Burial: Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Chet was born January 5, 1937, the 2nd born of 11 children. He is survived by his four children, Lance Goldsberry of Woodbury, MN, Lori Bascom of Marion, Lonie Goldsberry (William Hill) of Brooklyn Center, MN, and Layne Goldsberry (Wendy Butler) of Cedar Rapids; sisters, Janice Brooks, Karen Goldsberry, Marcine Luke, Marilyn Welch, Sherrie Justice and Julie Ambach; 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Mary Lou; infant children Lee, Todd, and Louise; grandson, Jaise Goldsberry-Weldon; his parents, Chester and Maxine; and siblings Clifford, Cheryl, Sharlene Flynn, and Lynda Lynch.

Chet attended Roosevelt High School and joined the U.S. Navy upon graduation. Chet returned home after 3 years of service and soon met his wife, Mary Lou. After a three-month courtship, they married on November 27, 1958. Chet was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Chet's passing leaves enormous holes in the hearts and lives of all who love and adore him.

Chet and Mary endured unimaginable loss as a young family, losing three babies those early years. Chet carried a tremendous sense of responsibility for his wife and children, working multiple jobs during times of hardship. To Chet, family was everything.

Chet was also an avid ice fisher and bow hunter. He was a long-time member of the Waltonian Archers of Linn County. He proudly displayed some of his accomplishments in his home, including a nationally ranked buck. Chet caught a deer as recent as this past October, 2024.

There wasn't a day since Mary Lou's passing that he didn't love and grieve her, yet he did his best to live life fully. He pushed and hoped every day that he could regain his strength after being diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis.

Chet took his faith seriously. He attended weekly mass at St. Patrick's Church, always arriving early to recite the rosary. He found solace in his faith after Mary's passing.

He was adamant about living independently. Chet loved his two fur babies, cats, Gabe and Callie. He insisted that Callie was just like Mary. We know that Mom was waiting for Dad with open arms. They will forever watch over us.