Kenneth Chastain

Fayette resident, Kenneth Chastain, age 89, passed away peacefully at the Lodge on January 1, 2023.

Kenneth Ralph Chastain was born August 17, 1933 in Cape Fair, MO, a son to the late George Arch and Mary (Morris) Chastain.  Upon graduation from Reeds Spring High School in southern Missouri, Kenneth enlisted in the U.S. Army.  He served his country with honor during the Korean War, earning the National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.  On June 22, 1956, Kenneth married the love of his life, Dorothy Jean (Engle) Pierson.  The couple enjoyed 65 years of marriage until Dorothy’s passing on January 26, 2022.  Kenneth started his working career with Libby Can Manufacturing in Chicago, IL.  In 1968 he was transferred to California.  Kenneth worked as a Bliss Press Operator for Libby for over 30 years.  In 1982 Kenneth took a job as custodian in the Elk Grove School District in California, retiring in 1995.  Following retirement, the family moved back home to mid Missouri.  Kenneth came out of retirement and worked as custodian for several years for New Franklin Schools.  It was a job Kenneth truly enjoyed and he adored his time spent with the children.  While in California, Kenneth was an active Mason and his favorite hobby was fishing.

Survivors include his three children, Melinda Jessee of Armstrong, MO; Karyn (Scott) Larson of Armstrong, MO and Howard (Candice) Pierson of Fallon, NV; eight grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.  In addition to his wife and parents, Kenneth was preceded in death by a son, Darren Chastain, son-in-law, Duane Jessee, daughter-in-law, Sharon Pierson and seven siblings, Logan, Arlen, James, Jackie, Lela, Patsy and Roxie.

A memorial service will be held 11 AM, Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at Friemonth-Freese Funeral Home in Fayette, with Rev. David Mackey officiating.  Visitation will be an hour before the service starting at 10 AM.  Inurnment with full military honors will be held at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lodge, c/o Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service 174 Hwy. 5 & 240 N., Fayette, MO 65248.

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