Chester John Haluch, a beloved member of the Paw Paw, Michigan community, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2018, at the age of 86. Surrounded by his loving family at Bronson Commons, his life, rich with dedication to family and service to his community, came to a gentle close. Born on November 23, 1931, in Paw Paw, MI, Chester John was the son of John and Nellie Haluch (Kwasniak).
Growing up in Paw Paw, Chester John Haluch attended Paw Paw High School, graduating in 1950. His commitment to family blossomed when he married Bette Vargo on June 23, 1951. Their marriage of 63 years was blessed with five children, marking the beginning of a large and loving family.
Chester John Haluch dedicated his professional life to various roles, starting at Sutherland Paper Mill, then John Tapper Oldsmobile, and later retiring from the Michigan State Police. His service continued into retirement with Sunburst Memorials. A life-long member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Chester John also served as the sexton of the church cemetery, and extended his care to Glendale and Austin cemeteries.
Beyond his professional and community roles, Chester John embraced life’s simple pleasures. He found joy in hunting and fishing, but his greatest happiness came from spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known for his generous heart, Chester John was always ready to help others. Whether lending a hand, offering support, or famously cooking pork roasts for grieving families, he ensured everyone around him was cared for. His annual garden was another testament to his generosity, with its bounty shared with priests, neighbors, and friends. Often found working on his farm with his tractors and lawn mowers, Chester John embodied a spirit of hard work and giving. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Chester John is survived by his children Linda Conner, William (Renee) Haluch, David (Lacee) Haluch, and Mary Haluch; grandchildren Ashley Conner, Sara (Ron) Perry, Phillip (Lauren) Curtis, Blake Curtis, Taylor (Cody) Curtis, Hunter and Skylar Haluch, and Olivia and Garrett Haluch; great-grandchildren Noah, Jacob and Nicole Perry and Mason Hite; his loyal K-9 companion Sadie; and his sister Josephine Ruzick. He was predeceased by his wife Bette Haluch, daughter Nancy Curtis, grandson Justin Curtis, brothers Stanley and Frank Haluch, sisters Stella (Haluch) Gap, Victoria (Haluch) Finn, Genevieve (Haluch) Jaros, and longtime family member Nyal Brown.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 16, 2018, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, with a Rosary service at 7:00 p.m. A memorial mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 12:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, officiated by Father Joseph Xavier and Father Robert Creagan, followed by a luncheon in the gymnasium. In remembrance of Chester John, the family requests memorial donations be made to St Mary’s Catholic Church, continuing his legacy of community support.
