Chester McKinley Anderson Jr., 87, of Colchester, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.

Born on April 13, 1938, in New Britain, he was the son of the late Chester M. and Olive (Hubbard) Anderson. Chester proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during peacetime before settling in Colchester, where he built a home and raised his family with love, strength, and unwavering dedication.

A longtime member of the Colchester Federated Church, Chester was a man of quiet faith and deep values. In his younger years, he found joy in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He married Alberta Mader in 1995, and they shared many happy years together until her passing in 2020.

Chester worked tirelessly throughout his life to provide for his family, retiring after a long career as a professional truck driver transporting poultry. He was known for his strong work ethic, quick wit, one-of-a-kind sense of humor, and natural gift for storytelling.

To his children, he was a steadfast and loving father who always put their needs first. To his grandchildren, he was Papa, a grandfather who was always there supporting them in any way he could. He loved them deeply and took immense pride in every moment spent with them - the sun rose and set on those boys.

Chester will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love by his children and their spouses: Chester III (Rachel) Anderson of Windsor, Mary (John) McGuire of Colchester, Rev. Dr. Cheryl (Jim) Caronna of Colchester, and Nicole (Richard) Hosford of Colchester; a stepdaughter, Margaret Mader of Rocky Hill; and his cherished grandsons, Jacob and Aaron Hosford; grandchildren, Matthew (Anna) Monroe, Laura Caronna, Jane McGuire; great grandchildren Emma and Ethan Monroe, and many extended family members, and friends.

He is also survived by siblings Harry Anderson of MA, Roy Anderson, Terry Anderson, and Edith Cornish, all of Norwich. In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by siblings Lester, William, Thomas, Ronald, Dickie, and Ralph Anderson, and Olive Davis.

Chester’s legacy of love, hard work, and humor will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held from the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Rd., Colchester, on Wednesday, September 3rd beginning with calling hours from 4 – 6 PM. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, Sept. 4th at 10:30 AM directly at the Colchester Federated Church, 60 Main Street, Colchester 06415. The burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery at 12:30 PM. Donations in Chester’s memory may be made to the Colchester Federated Church.    

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