April 4, 1954 – February 11, 2025
Robert Chester
Robert Chester, a man whose life was filled with finely tuned music, starlight, and beautiful art, passed away peacefully at his home in Seattle. Born in Grand Junction, Colorado and raised in Bloomington, Minnesota, Bob graced this world with his presence for 71 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Conchita and his older brother, John.
After graduating with honors from Berklee College of Music Boston in the mid-70s, he politely declined their offer of a teaching position, choosing instead to pursue his true calling: the often-unpredictable life of a musician. He could coax a tune from virtually any instrument – a tuba, a ukulele, even, it’s rumored, a kazoo. He wrote lyrics that could make you smile, ponder, and feel all the feelings. Bob arranged and recorded his own music, proving his mastery of all aspects of the craft. While he enjoyed collaborating with fellow musicians and playing in many bands, he was also a self-contained musical force.
Beyond his musical pursuits, Bob’s greatest accomplishment was his daughter, Angela, whom he cherished. He is survived by Angela, his grandson Lucas, his sister Fran, his niece Kali, and his nephew, Marco.
Bob was also a master framer. He owned a framing business in Red Wing, Minnesota, where he transformed everyday images into works of art.
Bob harbored a deep fascination with the universe. He constructed his own telescope that allowed him to capture breathtaking photographs of the moon and stars, demonstrating that he was as skilled at framing the cosmos as he was at framing art.
He made friends easily, charmed acquaintances with his wit, and was unfailingly loyal to those he held dear. Bob’s life was a rich composition, filled with harmonies, a few unexpected chords, and always played with genuine, feeling. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He’s now among the stars he so admired, perhaps finally finding the perfect celestial frame.
The post first appeared on Barton Family Funeral Service.