CHESTER G. MERANDO

Chester G. Merando, 88, of Frontenac, Kansas, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2026.

Chester was born on January 5, 1938, in Frontenac, Kansas, the son of Antone “Tony” and Josephine (Arcana) Merando. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Virginia Merando; and his older sister, Joann Wattelet.

A lifelong resident of Frontenac, Chester graduated from Frontenac High School with the Class of 1956 and later graduated from Pittsburg State University in 1960.  On May 20, 1960, Chester married the love of his life, Virginia (Brackett) Merando, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac. Together they shared nearly 56 years of marriage and built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and service to their community. Sacred Heart Catholic Church remained an important part of their lives throughout the years. Virginia preceded him in death on April 21, 2016. He was lifelong member of the Miner’s Hall Museum.

Chester began his career with Foodtown Stores, where he worked for many years before joining Kansas Teachers Credit Union. Through his dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving others, he built a successful career that spanned decades. He remained with Kansas Teachers Credit Union until his retirement.

Above all else, Chester was devoted to his church and his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He took great pride in his family and found his greatest joy in watching the generations grow. Whether attending family gatherings, cooking family dinners, sharing stories, offering quiet guidance, or simply spending time with those he loved, Chester’s presence brought comfort and strength to those around him.

He is survived by his three sons: Todd Merando of Pittsburg, Kansas; Jon Merando (Mandy) of Pittsburg, Kansas; and David Merando (Stacey) of Shawnee, Kansas.

His cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Jarred Simmons (Anita), Emily Bolinger (Keaton) and their children, Tate and Tripp; Sierra Merando (Dylan Clark) and their children, Madden and Margo; Dawson Merando, Lexi Merando (Griffin Voorhies) and their son, Rome; and Josephine Merando.

Chester is also survived by his sister, Sandra Hunt (Calvin) of Tulsa, Oklahoma, along with many special nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Chester will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, his steadfast faith, his humility, and his quiet strength. He lived a life defined not by recognition or accolades, but by the love he shared, the example he set, and the values he passed on to his family.

His family finds comfort in knowing that Chester has been reunited with Virginia and with the loved ones who went before him. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, and example.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, Kansas with Father Josh Evans as celebrant. Rosary will be Monday, September 7, 2026, at 6:00 P.M. at Sacred Heart Catholic, where family will receive friends until 8:00 P.M. following the rosary. The casket will remain closed. The burial will be at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Pittsburg, Kansas.  The family suggests memorials to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  Donations may be sent to or left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma, Kansas 66712.