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Family was always Chet's highest priority and his proudest achievement.

Chester D. Zawadzki passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, at the age of 89. Born on November 20, 1936, in Hammond, Indiana, Chet was a long-time resident of Hammond before making his home in Labadie, Missouri, for the past 21 years.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 44 years, Beverly J. (Collins) Zawadzki; his parents, Chester Zawadzki and Agnes Zawadzki; his son-in-law, Daniel Droszcz; and his brothers-in-law, Jerry Hatfield, Jerry Timmons, and Pete LaSalle.

Known as Chet to his friends and Sonny by his family, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

Growing up as a young boy in "Frogsville," life was hard, but it was always filled with family and friends who were only a stone's throw—or rather, a piece of coal—away. He fondly remembered running home from Warren G. Harding School for lunch, anticipating a warm bowl of tomato soup and a loving embrace from his grandma, watching the big boys play ball to the familiar taunts of "Peaches, peaches!", and cooling off in the pool at Hessville Park. That idyllic youth faced a defining moment the day he was diagnosed with polio. Thanks to the dedication of his parents and the nurses at Riley Hospital in Indianapolis, his hospital stay was shorter than most, though in later years post-polio syndrome served as a constant reminder of that time.

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His quick intellect, devotion to his family, and unforgettable presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

After attending Hammond Technical High School, Chet, a proud veteran, served his country with honor during a tour of duty in the United States Army. Living by one of his favorite sayings, "Never pass up the opportunity to learn," he enrolled at Calumet College while working and raising five children. Supported by his wife, Beverly, who spent late nights typing his papers, Chet persevered to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Calumet College.

Throughout his life, Chet dedicated his talents to diverse professional pursuits, working in Sales and Support for Coffee Inns of America and later serving his community as a Probation Officer for Lake County Courts, Division 3—where he was well known for offering his trademark advice, "Better wise up, fella." While living in Hammond, he was also active in local politics, serving as a precinct committeeman for several terms and enthusiastically campaigning for his favorite candidates. He was a long-time member of MENSA, known by all as the smartest man in the room—and he wouldn't hesitate to tell you so.

Yet, his life was not all work and civic duty. Family was always Chet's highest priority and his proudest achievement. He seldom missed an activity or event where his wife or children were involved, faithfully attending recitals, ball games, cheerleading events, and theatrical performances. He would eventually participate in some of those community plays himself, which fell right in line, coming from a long line of colorful storytellers. Some of the most memorable times came from sitting around listening to him, his cousins, aunts, and uncles recall their life stories—stories that will now be folded into ours. His quick intellect, devotion to his family, and unforgettable presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his five devoted children: Susan (Zawadzki) Hardin and her husband Lyle, Christopher Zawadzki, Lisa (Zawadzki) Schwartz and her husband Erik, Andrew Zawadzki and his wife Elizabeth Zeni, and Nancy Droszcz.

He is also cherished by his twelve grandchildren: Jake, Sarah, and Addison Hardin; Amber Zawadzki; Ezra, Ava, and Jack Schwartz; Thomas and Oliver Zawadzki; and Agatha, Kayley, and Kai Droszcz.

He is further survived by his two sisters, Marilyn Hatfield and Janet Timmons, along with many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Solan-Pruzin Funeral Home, 14 Kennedy Avenue, Schererville, IN 46375, with a Celebration of Life service at 7:30 PM.

A Funeral Service will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the Funeral Home with Rev. Charles Niblick officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 AM until time of service. Burial to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The National Kidney Foundation.