BLACK, Chester

February 21, 1931 ~ November 8, 2025

Chester Black at the age of 94, of Haynes Alberta, passed away on Saturday November 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Chester was born on February 21, 1931 in Red Deer, AB to Marybelle & Edgerton Black. He grew up with a love for hockey and skiing, passions that carried through his life and reflected his adventurous spirit. He cherished his family and maintained close family bonds throughout his years. On September 22, 1956, Chester married the love of his life, Doris Lakeman. Their marriage spanned an extraordinary 69 years, marked by devotion, laughter, and music. Together, they raised eight children, who in turn blessed them with 24 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Family was always Chester’s greatest joy, and he never missed an opportunity to gather, celebrate, and share with those he loved. Music was central to Chester’s life. For decades, he sang and played saxophone in a band, with Doris accompanying him on keyboard. Their performances brought joy to many and created treasured memories for their family and community. Chester also loved to sing and dance, often filling gatherings with his songs. Known affectionately as “Papa” by his grandchildren, Chester had a gift for making every moment special. He enjoyed camping, quadding, and exploring the foothills in his side-by-side. He was an avid outdoorsman who also enjoyed the Alberta countryside. His humor and lightheartedness were constants in his life. He led by example, teaching lessons through his actions on the farm and in daily life. He believed in hard work, resourcefulness, and responsibility, often reminding his children and grandchildren that “the only way to finish a job is to start it first” and that “most anything can be haywired together.” His pearls of wisdom, humor, and practical ingenuity will live on in the generations he inspired. At family gatherings, Chester loved to sit at the head of the table, with Doris at the other end. He would often quip, “After all these years, look what’s come between us,” a reminder of the beautiful family they built together. Chester is survived by his beloved wife Doris, his 8 children: Lindsay (Val), Murray (Sarah), Gordon (Dawn), Cindy, Keith (Janalea), Christine (Scott), Jason (Keely), and Darcy (Tracy); his 24 grandchildren; and his 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved sisters Marie & Donna, one son Ronnie and 3 Grandchildren Laura, Ross, and Chad. A Celebration of Chesters Life was held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with Jolene Brayford as Funeral Celebrant.   Interment followed at the Fairview Stone Cemetery East of Haynes, Alberta. The family would like to invite you all to the Haynes Community Hall, RR 1, Clive, AB for light refreshments. Chester’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and wisdom. He will be remembered for his smile, his music, his dad jokes, and his unwavering devotion to family. His spirit will live on in every story told, every song sung, and every gathering of those who loved him. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

“Caring Community Compassion Since 1999”

6287 – 67A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

• Date : 2025-11-23
• Location : (Red Deer) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com