Obituary of Chester Anthony Rutkowski

Chester A. Rutkowski Age 90, of Joliet, passed away Sunday, September 25, 2016 at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center. Born May 25, 1926 in Joliet, he was the son of John and Sophie (Toczek) Rutkowski. He was a veteran of World War II serving with the United States Navy. For over 60 years, he owned and operated Chet's Hair Studio which opened December 13, 1954 and remains in operation to this day. Chet also played accordion and directed his own band, The Chet Rutkowski Orchestra. Chet was an entrepreneur and a man ahead of his time. He was involved in the launching of numerous businesses. He was a very generous man, often helping friends succeed, and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He was a great storyteller. He will be remembered for his skill at fixing almost anything. His family will cherish the time they enjoyed traveling together. Afternoons will always be remembered as Jeopardy and martini-time. Surviving are his beloved wife of 67 years, Bernardine L. (Cernugel) Rutkowski of Joliet; one son, Steve Rutkowski of Joliet; two daughters, Cyndi (Jim) Karges of Joliet and Becky Novakoski of Crystal Lake; his grandchildren, Jeff (Lindsay) Karges, Maggie (Pat) Watson, Amelia Karges, Mae Novakoski and Tom Novakoski; two great-grandchildren, Davis and Genevieve Watson; one brother, Edward (Marilyn) Rutkowski; one sister, Florence (Gerald) Seeley; and several nieces and nephews. Preceded by his parents, and one brother, Joseph Rutkowski. Funeral services for Chet Rutkowski will be held Thursday, September 29, 2016 at 9:15 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Roads, Joliet, to St. Joseph Catholic Church, Joliet for Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com.