Ted Chesney

Colonel (retired) Ted S. Chesney, 90, of Barrington, IL, was born in Chicago, in 1934 to Mary, the devoted third wife of Konstanty Szczesny. After the passing of his previous wife, Konstanty remarried, and together, he and Mary embraced the responsibility of raising a large and loving family, ensuring that all 13 children had the care and guidance they needed. Ted was a treasured child. As the youngest, he was the apple of his mother’s and father’s eyes. He was also doted upon by his older siblings, who were generous with their time, care, and devotion.

Ted attended Holy Trinity High School in Chicago and played multiple sports, which eventually led to his ROTC scholarship at DePaul University. While attending DePaul, he met Rosalie (née Reeves), whom he charmed into attending a dance with him. Following that first date, Rosalie rode home on his lap and the rest was history. Ted and Rosalie had four boys, all of whom, with the support of their mother, followed their father into service in US Army. J, Mike, Matt, and Chris Chesney each retired with at least 20 years of military service.

Ted was commissioned in the US Army in 1958. After his commitment to his family, Ted considered his service to country his highest calling. Ted served two tours in the Vietnam War, in 1965 and 1971 and multiple command tours in Europe. Despite the fractious political climate, he maintained a steadfast focus to the mission of his nation. As with most accomplished Army officers after 30 years of service, Ted chose the more meaningful profession, to serve his community as a history teacher in the Barrington 220 School District. Admired by many as “the Colonel,” he touched lives far beyond the classroom and left a legacy in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of learning from him.

Ted and Rosalie lived in Barrington for many years, enjoying family, friends, Saint Anne Catholic Community, and the surrounding Forest Preserves, where they walked daily. Rosalie passed away from cancer in 1999. After a period of mourning, Ted met the woman who shared his life for the next 24 plus years, Linda (nèe Bucolt). When not traveling extensively in Europe or cruising in the Pacific and Asian Oceans, Ted and Linda split their time between Barrington and Surprise, AZ. They were very grateful that they were allowed a second chance at true love. Linda continues to live in Surprise and remains thankful for the wonderful years she spent with Ted.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 10 from 3pm until 8pm at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 149 W. Main St. (Lake Cook Road), Barrington. A second visitation will be held on Friday, April 11 beginning at 9am until the time of the funeral mass at 10:30am at Saint Anne Catholic Community, 120 North Ela St (corner of Franklin and Ela Sts.), Barrington. Burial will follow at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery, Lake Bluff.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675.