Chester Ralph Mathews passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus July 14, with his wife Lula, of 69 years, by his side. Born in Aberdeen, July 31, 1920, to Jesse and Myrtle Mathews, the oldest of three boys. He met Lula Kelly at church and 'fell in love with her at first sight', and she vowed to marry him even before she knew his name. They were married on her 19th birthday, May 22, 1941. He proudly served in the Merchant Marines in WWII and was honorably discharged. Chet and Lu raised their children, Richard and Lois, in Kennewick where Chet was a contractor. He was known for his sense of humor and infectious laugh. He loved fishing, cars, and racing. He loved celebrating his shared birthday with his son and grandson 3 generations on 7/31. Chet was preceded in death by his daughter Linnea; brothers, Don who died serving in World War II, and Eugene; as well as his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife Lula and Sammie his cherished cockatiel; his children, Richard RuthAnne Mathews of Kennewick and Lois Steve Ginter of Burbank. Grandchildren; Sean Renee Mathews, Rebecca Travis Vietz, Laura Herman Calzadillas, and Derek Ginter. Great-grandchildren: Gavin and Tracin Mathews; Jessica, Sarah and Micaela Vietz; Elian and Alyssa Calzadillas; and Cameron Ginter. His family invites you to join them as they express fond thoughts and memories at his celebration of life service at 5:30 p.m. on July 22, 2010, at Kennewick Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 7105 W 10th Ave, Kennewick WA.