Chester J. Molinari, Jr., “Chet,” 88

Chester J. Molinari, Jr., “Chet,” 88, of West Wareham, passed away on Saturday, April 4, at the Nemasket Health Care Center in Middleborough. Chester was the husband of 18 years to Pauline C. (McBride) Molinari, also of West Wareham.  

He was born in Boston, the son of the late Chester J. and Rebecca (Linton) Molinari, Sr.  He attended Boston Public Schools and graduated from Hyde Park High School in 1949. He graduated from Boston University with a Master’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation. Chet served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.  He served with the 618th Medical Company. He worked for the VA Healthcare Systems in Brockton and West Roxbury and he was the Supervisor of Therapeutic Recreation. Chet was associated with the City of Brockton Adapted Aquatics program for nearly 20 years. He volunteered for over 20 years with the American Red Cross in many capacities including Instructor Trainer in Water Safety and Adapted Aquatics. He was the Dean of the National Aquatic School, served on the Board of Directors and the Chairman of the Water Safety Committee. He was also associated with the Easter Seal Society and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He was a founding member of the “National Veterans Wheelchair Games.” He also worked with “Handi-Kids” in West Bridgewater, instructing water safety. He was an avid New England Patriots fan and most knew him to be a gentle, quiet and patient man.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his children; Susan Molinari of Bridgewater, Lisa Rogers of Plainville and Michelle Molinari of Taunton. He was the grandfather of Jennifer Mickel and Lauren Rogers.

Funeral services will be private with burial in Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne, MA. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.warehamvillagefuneralhome.com Memorial gifts may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project www.woundedwarriorproject.org  877.TEAM.WWP (832.6997)  4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300 Jacksonville, FL 32256  Arrangements by Wareham Village Funeral Home, 5 Center Street, Wareham.