Chester K. Pedigo

Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, ascended to heaven on April 5, 2024.  

He lived a full life. Full of adventure and experiences that he shared with family and friends.  

Born in Southeast Missouri, Chester was the second oldest of five children.  His parents, Carl and Effie Mae Pedigo, preceded him in death, as did his siblings.  

Chester chose to serve his country on two separate occasions. Pre-Vietnam War and during Vietnam. He survived two tours in Vietnam. Chester was awarded several military awards and commendations, including a Purple Heart and Bronze Star.  

He carried himself with silent confidence and always led from the front throughout his life.  

After Vietnam he moved north to the Chicago land area, ultimately settling in Chicago Heights, Ill.  He and his wife retired to Jonesboro, Ill., and had lived there for the past 17 years.

Chester Pedigo Fathered two children with his wife Sherra Pedigo. (Penny Pedigo (Luna) and Chester Klore Pedigo II.)  

He is survived by Sherra (married 56 years), age 78; Daughter Penny and Son Chester. Penny is married to Alberto Luna. She has one child (Dakota Hoecker) and two grandchildren.  Chester is married to Claudia Pedigo and they have three children (Adrianna, Anthony and Alyssa), and another son previously, (Demitre Pedigo).

Chester Pedigo during his life was in several bands as a drummer on weekends.  During the week he worked hard in factories in and around Chicago and Northwest Indiana. He always provided for his family.  

He enjoyed playing cards, shooting pool, dancing with his wife, fishing, BBQs and movies. Westerns were his favorite, but he also had an affection for War movies.

Chester was a giving person, especially around the holidays. Almost every year for the past two decades around Christmas he would silently go to grocery stores and purchase stranger’s groceries. That was the kind of person he was. It is also how he will be remembered.   

When loved ones pass on it always seems you didn’t get enough time with them.  It is very true with Chester Pedigo. However, with Chester you got all he had to give. He left an impression on everyone. He will live on in his family’s and friend’s memories, stories, lives and name...He will never be forgotten…

To view the obituary and to leave online condolences for the family, visit www.rendlemanhilemanfh.com. 

Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Jonesboro was in charge of arrangements.