Noble Chester “Chet” Love was doing the yard work he loved to do when he died suddenly on the morning of Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022. The 11th of 12 children, he was born to Noble and Irene Love of Artois on April 30, 1942.
He attended “Artois Tech,” as he fondly called the grammar school across from his family home. He then attended Willows High School.
He joined the Army National Guard in November of 1959 and served until November of 1965. He was very proud of his service.
He met Betty in the summer of 1963 and they took a trip to Reno on Nov. 26, 1963, and married. That marriage lasted until Betty died on June 6, 2018.
When he married Betty, she had four young children, Vicki, Scott, Terri, and Becky, whom he proudly raised as his own.
In 1964, Betty and Chester would welcome a daughter, Lorena Irene, into the world. Sadly, her life was very short, as she died six weeks later.
In 1967, they would welcome the final member of the family, Patty.
From the time he was 17 until he was 70, Chet worked as a ranch hand, “pivot” expert, and ranch foreman. He continued driving a harvester in the rice up until this last harvest in September of 2022.
He was a hardworking man and loved farming. He was always willing to help anyone who needed it, whether it be friends or family.
He enjoyed his morning walks and was known for wearing his “bibs” (bib overalls, shorts or pants).
When out and about he always ran into someone he knew and he met them with a smile, handshake, or hug. He always took the time to catch up.
He loved his family and supported them in their activities and accomplishments. He attended birthday parties, sporting events, dance recitals, graduations, and any other event they might invite him to.
In recent years, he enjoyed life by completing many projects, going for drives, visiting friends, showing support to the community that he grew up in and loved. He had also reconnected with a classmate, Bonnie Fizgerald, whom he loved dearly and with whom he enjoyed many wonderful memories.
He is survived by his children; their spouses; 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sisters Mary and Elaine; girlfriend Bonnie; and nieces, nephews, and countless friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Chalmer, Wallas, Neal, Willie, and two additional brothers; sisters Christine, Emma, and Ava; a grandson, nephews, and daughter; and his wife of almost 55 years, Betty Love.
The family would appreciate your attendance at the memorial service and celebration of life at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Artois Fire Hall, 740 Main Street, Artois. His family requests, “Please join us to celebrate this amazing man’s life.”
Lunch is planned to be provided immediately after the service. F.D. Sweet and Son Mortuary is handling the arrangements.
The Glenn County Observer 