Chester Marshall Hendrickson

Chester Marshall Hendrickson

Ely

Chester Marshall Hendrickson, 77, died peacefully in his home on January 2, 2026 after a courageous eight-year battle with cancer.

Chet is survived by his wife of nearly 46 years, Rachel; sons Nathan (Jess) of Atkins, Christopher (Jessy) of Ely; and granddaughters, Madisyn, Avery and our bonus, Izy. Chet is also survived by his brother Ed (Judy) of Annandale, Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, John and his twin, Charles.

Chet was born on February 10, 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts, to Raymond and Loretta Hendrickson. He was raised in North Tonawanda, New York. and graduated from North Tonawanda High School in 1966. He married Rachel Storm on January 12, 1980 and together they raised two children.

Chet served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970. While serving in Vietnam with the 1st Cavalry Division, 2/7th , he was awarded the Combat Medic Badge, the Silver Star for Gallantry and the Bronze Star. After his military service, he joined the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC and served as a motorcycle patrol officer. In 1974 he transferred to the United States Park Police retiring in 1994. He served in various positions including Special Operations, and the Aviation Section where he was a Flight Rescue Technician and Helicopter Pilot. Chet was awarded the Department of Interior Life Saving Medal for rescuing a drowning victim.

After retiring, the family moved to Ely, Iowa, where Chet drove a school bus for the College Community School District for several years and served on the Ely Planning and Zoning Commission for over 20 years.

Chet was passionate about his family. He enjoyed cribbage, woodworking and repairing cars with his sons. He loved reading and was a frequent visitor to the Ely Public Library. He was beloved by many.

The family would like to thank the physicians and care team at Hall Perrine Cancer Center and his personal physician who carried us to the very end. We are forever grateful.

There will be a Memorial Open House on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 2-5 pm at the Ely American Legion (St. Quentin Post 555), 1545 Main Street, Ely, Iowa.