Chester Lobert

Chester “Chet” M. Lobert, age 81, of Grantsburg, WI, passed away Sunday, December 11, 2016. Chet was born in Maywood, Illinois, on November 28, 1935, a son of the late Florence (Day) and Chester M. Lobert, Sr. His youth was spent in Maywood where he attended public schools including Garfield High School. During his late teen and early adult years, Chet worked for a local quarry and then at Jewel T Food Store where he was promoted to produce manager. He later served in the United States Air Force. On November 2, 1963, Chet married JoAnn Helen Osgar in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He worked at various jobs during his adult life, including at Rivera Motors, Aslesen Restaurant Supply and Worldwide Industries (Holiday), all in the twin cities area. Chet then was employed over 18 years at Kroy Industries in Osceola, WI, retiring in 1999. All his positions utilized his analytical mind and natural talent to maintain and repair companies’ facilities, machines, vehicles, and forklifts. After retirement, he operated a antique clock repair business in his home. Chet was a Lutheran, and possessed a strong faith in the Lord. He was a hard worker, and a good provider for his family. He appreciated the dog breed, Boston Terrier, and had owned many of them over the years. Chet had a passion for antique automobiles, and had owned and maintained at one time a 1931 Model A Ford, a 1937 Ford, and a 1941 Lincoln Zephyr. Chet took a great deal of pride maintaining his property. He always had notable vegetable gardens and was known for his Beefsteak, Big Girl and Big Boy tomato plants, many reaching 12 feet tall. Chet also planted numerous apple trees on his land. He enjoyed going for drives, antiquing, hunting and fishing, and creating pencil and ink drawings and sketches. He is preceded in death by his parents Chester and Florence Lobert, Sr.; a daughter, Diane Kendricks, a sister and brother-in-law, Gloria and Frank Klepper; and brother-in-law, Charles Downing. Chet is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, JoAnn; his children: Edward Lobert, William Lobert (Marie Anderson), Annie Laurie Lobert (Richard “OzFox” Martinez), Charles Lobert and Darla Reynolds; grandchildren: Stephanie, Joseph, Taylor, Damian, Paul, Lea, Tara, Jam and Crystal; sister, Carol Downing; and nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be conducted at 11:00am (visitation 10:00 to 11:00am), Saturday, January 7, 2016, at Faith Lutheran Church, 421 South Russell Street, Grantsburg, WI, with Pastor Sandy Hutchens officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted with Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Grantsburg, WI. Online condolences may be expressed at www.swedberg-taylor.com.