Chester “Chet” Maziarz was born outside Archangel, Russia, one of the harshest places on earth, after his family was forced to flee Poland during World War II. With the help of the Roman Catholic Church, he and his siblings were separated and sent to relatively safe havens until the war ended. Chet spent parts of his childhood in Iran, Pakistan, India, Tanzania and, finally, England before immigrating to the United States as a teenager. In a remarkable turn of fate, his entire family was eventually reunited in Chicago, where they remained close throughout his life.

In the early 1960s, Chet met Lillian Roguszczak while serving as a groomsman in a wedding. They fell in love, married, and a few years later, welcomed their son, Mark.

Chet worked at Jolly Kids Togs in Chicago before moving into finance, where he found his true calling. Early in his career, his energetic and personable style led to a unique opportunity: delivering daily stock reports on WBBM radio. The role expanded his client base and became a lasting point of connection—for years afterward, he was often asked if he was “the Chet Maziarz from the radio.”

Over the years, Chet rose through the ranks of the finance world as a salesman, manager, and executive. He had an extraordinary memory for numbers, easily recalling minute details of his clients’ investments. But what truly set him apart was his ability to connect with people. Chet listened closely to his clients’ hopes and concerns and met them with knowledge, respect, and genuine care. His calm, optimistic presence put others at ease, and many clients became lifelong friends.

In Chicago, Chet and Lillian built a vibrant life together. They were avid tennis players, gracious hosts of dinners and holiday gatherings, and active members of the Polish community. Their home was one of warmth, connection, and celebration.

A love of travel took them all over the world, often alongside their son Mark and his wife, Mary Beth. In retirement, life slowed in welcome ways: early mornings gave way to relaxed starts, tennis shifted to pickleball, and the arrival of grandchildren brought new joy. Chet and Lillian eventually moved to Utah to be closer to family.

What stands out most about Chet, however, is not simply what he did, but how he made people feel.

There was often a twinkle in his eye—sometimes from the joy of seeing you, sometimes from a small surprise he had planned or a story he was eager to share. His attention was always on people. He might not notice a new wall color, but he would immediately sense if someone was feeling down and gently offer his support.

Chet found thoughtful ways to stay connected. If he came across a newspaper article a friend might enjoy, he would clip it and mail it with a handwritten note. He gave compliments freely, celebrated others’ successes, and delighted in small moments—often punctuated by his enthusiastic “mmm mmm!” at a good meal, especially one prepared by his favorite chef, Lillian.

He had a gift for easing tension and making things better. At his son’s wedding rehearsal, when things had gone humorously off track, Chet quietly sought out a guest who happened to be a theater director and asked for help. Within minutes, order was restored and the wedding party was walking perfectly down the aisle. True to form, Chet later sent the director a generous note of thanks (and a tip).

He was playful and fully present with children, happy to do whatever they wanted—whether playing soccer, fishing, reading in a hammock, or having an imaginary tea party. He had fun, and he made things fun. Children adored him.

Chet laughed easily, loved deeply, and was quick to express appreciation for the people in his life. He supported others generously and looked for opportunities to help make their dreams possible. He was humble, kind, and made everyone feel welcome.

Even in his later years, as his health and memory declined, his kind and gentle spirit remained. He was often described simply and fittingly as a “sweetheart.”

Chet was preceded in death by his parents Julian and Maria Maziarz, his brother Jozef (Maria) Maziarz and his sisters Helena (Zygmunt) Tartik and Apolonia Maziarz. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lillian; his son, Mark (Mary Beth) Maziarz; his grandchildren, Scout and Foster. He is also survived by his sister, Krystyna (Jan) Derecki, his brother, Alfred (Barbara) Maziarz and by many loving nieces, nephews and friends .

Born in a harsh place during uncertain times, Chet created a life defined by warmth, generosity, and love. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.