New reports confirm the passing of beloved father and community figure Chester Potempa at the age of 96. He died peacefully on Dec. 10, 2026, at the family farm in San Pierre, Indiana, surrounded by the landscape he cherished.
Chester’s son, columnist Philip Potempa, shared the heartbreaking news earlier today, expressing profound grief over the loss of a father who served as a guiding light for many. Chester’s legacy of hard work, family values, and love of farming will resonate throughout the community and beyond.
In recent weeks, Chester had been recovering from heart surgery performed at the University of Chicago on his son’s birthday, Aug. 13. Family members gathered for Thanksgiving, celebrating his homecoming after a three-week stay in rehabilitation. However, Philip noted that Chester appeared increasingly fatigued in the days leading up to his passing, indicating he was ready to reunite with his late siblings and parents.
Chester Potempa, the youngest of nine siblings, often reflected on his roots, stating he was “born on the family farm in 1929.” His love for the farm and family was evident throughout his life, as he married Peggy Green on Sept. 5, 1953, and together they built a life centered around their shared values and work ethic.
Chester’s career in the trucking industry was equally impressive. He spent 38 years driving for Jack Gray Transport, a company known for its iconic red semi-trucks and eagle logo. Under the leadership of John S. Gray, Chester contributed to the company’s growth, which once boasted over 1,000 employees and extensive operations across the Midwest and beyond.
Philip Potempa reflected on cherished memories with his father, recounting projects they completed together, including a full-scale wooden harp and an eight-foot wooden frame of Frankenstein’s Monster for a Halloween event. These moments defined their father-son bond and left a lasting impact on Philip’s career in journalism.
The family is now preparing to honor Chester’s life with a visitation at O’Donnell Funeral Home on Dec. 19 from 3 PM to 7 PM CST, which will include a Catholic Rosary at 6:30 PM CST. The next day, a viewing will take place at All Saints Catholic Church, starting at 10 AM CST, followed by a funeral mass at 11 AM CST.
Chester’s legacy will continue to inspire through the love he shared with his family and community. As a tribute, Philip Potempa shared a comforting winter beef stew recipe that will forever be linked to memories of his father, emphasizing the warmth of family gatherings.
In this moment of loss, the Potempa family invites all who knew Chester to celebrate his remarkable life and the indelible mark he left on those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and countless friends and neighbors.
For more information or to extend condolences, visit www.odonnellfhome.com or contact the funeral home directly at 574-896-2149.