Joseph Nessinger born energetic, spunky and the “apple of his mother’s eye,” May 17, 1924, became a wonderful day in the lives of John and Ora (Severin) Nessinger. It was the day their curly-haired little Chester Joseph (Joe) Nessinger was born. It was also the first day in a life of accomplishments, honors and love and respect from a family who will hold him dear forever.

Chester married the love of his life, Betty Lou Jorgenson, October 26, 1946. Chester and Betty Lou became the proud parents of one daughter, Laurel Nessinger, of Green Bay; and three sons, Dale (Sally), Sturgeon Bay; Dan (Kathy), Algoma; and Robert (Judy), East Bethel, Minn. His family continued to expand with his grandchildren, John (Joni) Nessinger, Jason (Jessica) Nessinger, Michael Nessinger (deceased), Shannon Nessinger and Sierra Nessinger and step-grandchildren, Eric Gromek, Allison Gromek, Sarah (Eric) Miller, Gene Hasenfus, Adam Hasenfus and Taylor Hasenfus. And his family continues to grow with his great- grandchildren, Tyler Nessinger, Colby Nessinger, Mackenzie Nessinger, Dalton Nessinger, Bailee Nessinger, Michael Nessinger and Cole Nessinger; and four stepgreat- grandchildren, Michaela Kowalski, Christian Miller, Abigail Miller and Michael Hasenfus.

Chester’s brothers and sisters were so important to him. Always being considered to be the “one to go to,” he had five cherished brothers, John (deceased), Melvin (Dorothy), Ray (deceased), Ralph (deceased) and Phillip (deceased); five cherished sisters, Caroline (Vernon) Diedrich (deceased), Katherine (Red, deceased) Zastrow, Laura (Marvin), (deceased) Matzke, Joyce (Gus) Arbeiter (deceased) and Mary-Jane Young (deceased); one sister-in-law, Lorraine (Donald) Wessel; and brother-in-law, Billy Jorgenson (deceased).

Chester’s greatness was reflected in his honors, service to his community and his simple pleasures. Seeing battle and service in Italy and North Africa and being injured and receiving the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, he was a veteran of the Army and served in World War II. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion (head of the Firing Squad). He believed he “cast a mean shadow.” He was honored by the local Union 1521 for 50 years of membership, during which he served as financial secretary for 25-plus years, Bargaining and Grievance Committee for 20-plus years and steward for 26 years. He worked 40 years at Algoma Hardwoods, was a respected and faithful member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Algoma, and was the treasurer of St. Paul’s Lutheran Pioneers for many years. He also served on the Grandview Board (Algoma Housing Authority).
Who he was is not only reflected in the above love for his family, friends, country and community. Chester had a passion for fishing and deer hunting. Just before Thanksgiving, you could guarantee that you would find him at his hunting cabin in Florence with his family and great friend, John Anderson. Chester’s dedication and love also extended to his nephews and nieces. And for all of you who know him truly, he was aware of the Green Bay Packers. We will miss him always and know that with his first dedication going to God and his belief in Jesus, he no longer feeling pain and is enjoying the warmth of God’s ever-loving arms.

Friends called at the Schinderle Funeral Home, Algoma, from 4 to 8 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 and after 10 a.m., Monday, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, until the time of services at 11 a.m., with Rev. John Moll officiating. Veterans service was held at 6 p.m., and prayer service at 7 p.m., Sunday, at the funeral home. Burial was in St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery.