A True Patriot!

We respect the passing of a great shipmate and friend . . .

Chester "Chet" Cholewinski, 50

BOWDOIN-- Chester Chet Cholewinski, 50, of Lewis Hill Road, died following a courageous battle against cancer Friday, Jan. 20, 2006 at his home with his wife and sons at his side.

He was born in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 19, 1955, a son of Chester and Mary Lou Lewandowski Cholewinski. He attended Chicago schools and earned a bachelor's of science degree from Southern New Hampshire College. He married Nancy Thelen Oct. 19, 1982. Chet served 20 years in the U.S. Navy.

He was most recently employed at Barber Food in Portland and also served on the Bowdoin Board of Selectmen.

Chet was a Patriots fanatic and an avid hunter and carpenter. He was a patient and supportive father to his sons and had a special bond with each.

His family will especially remember and admire the courage and resilience he showed throughout his illness. Until he could no longer physically manage, Chet worked diligently towards completing his home. Even fatigued from his treatments, he was always willing to lend a hand or offer loving advice.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; and three sons, Joseph, Nicholas, and Michael Cholewinski; a stepson, Nathan Wittmayer of California; his father Chester Cholewinski of Wisconsin; his mother, Mary Lou Cholewinski of Illinois; six sisters, Maria Kozial, Sandy Wawczak, Susan Weigert, Laura Cholewinski, Mary Colletti, and Sharon Driggers, all of Illinois; and a brother Thomas Cholewinski of Illinois.

The family would like to thank Barber Food and Nappi Distributors for their support through Chet's illness. Special thanks are offered to Dave, Darrin, John, Braden, and Big Mikey.
Friends and family are invited to visit the Cholewinski home, 34 Lewis Hill Road, Bowdoin beginning 12 noon Saturday, Jan. 28, 2006 to celebrate Chet's Life.

Arrangements are in the care of Brackett Funeral Home, Brunswick. In lieu of flowers, any help towards finishing Chet's final project, his home, would be deeply and forever appreciated.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of our dear friend and shipmate -- Chester "Chet" Cholewinski