Chester Irwin Downey

Chester Irwin Downey, 77, of Walkerton, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Chester was born on August 27, 1949, in La Porte, IN, to Daro Lee Downey and Evelyn June (Crosby) Heminger.

On February 12, 1971, in Salem Heights, IN, he married Jean Smith who survives. Also surviving are his children, Lisa Downey and Becky (Chuck) Johnson, all of La Porte; grandchildren, Ashley (Christian) Negrete of Rolling Prairie, Heather (Shane Cooper) Elkins of Michigan City, Kayla (Drake) McIntosh of Fish Lake, Taylor (Nicole) Stouder of Knox, Whitney (Josue) Espinoza of Bunnlevel, NC, Darcy (Shane) Bish of Michigan City, Derek Hancock of North Carolina, and Eric Kime of La Porte; 15 great-grandchildren; 7 great, great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daro (Marjorie Ann) Downey and Evelyn (Raymond) Heminger; son, Richard Downey; grandson, Joseph Johnson; great, great-grandson, Noah Dalton; and brothers, Louis Downey, Charlie Pointon, Dennis Downey, Leonard Downey, and Raymond Downey.

Chester was a factory worker at American Home Foods then at Modern Door in Walkerton for over 30 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, visiting his friends in Wyoming and spending time with family and friends.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A private family service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Rebecca Johnson , 2900 Monroe Street, La Porte, IN 46350 or to the donor's choice.

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.