George Irving Chesley

George Irving Chesley January 21, 1941- July 11, 2020 George Irving Chesley went to join his creator on July 11, 2020. George was born January 21, 1941 in New Britain, Connecticut to George Luther Chesley and Mary Alma Davis Chesley. He was joined by a brother, Robert Davis Chesley in 1943. As a child George was active in his church and in Boy Scouts, becoming an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Worcester Academy in 1959. George attended Michigan State University and received a degree in Park and Recreation Management. He was a member of Delta Chi fraternity, making lifelong friends. He was a finalist in the Mr. MSU Contest. During summers while in college, he worked on a road paving crew to pay for his college tuition. After graduation in 1963, George was commissioned an officer in the Army Corps of Engineers. He spent the majority of his military time in Korea, supervising the use of heavy equipment. After two years in the service it was time to look for a civilian job! George took a job as Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. There he met Joy Krinche, and they were married on April 20, 1968. In 1969 George and Joy moved to Colorado so George could attend Colorado State University at Fort Collins. He wanted to study Forestry so he could work for the U.S. Forest Service. In 1971 he was accepted as pre-sale forester in the Willamette National Forest. Shawn, George and Joy's first child, was born while they lived in Lowell, Oregon. George was transferred to the Sweet Home Ranger District. Several years later, the family moved to the tiny town of Republic on the Colville National Forest in Washington, up close to the Canadian border. Megan, his second child was born in Canada. Three years in Republic, Washington and George was named the District Ranger for the Fort Rock District. Being District Ranger was George's favorite job in the Forest Service. George remained on the Deschutes National Forest until his retirement. He helped form COFMS, a group of different agencies who work together to manage fires in Central Oregon. He also participated on national fire teams that manage huge, complicated fires. He retired on March 3, 2003. Throughout his life George was an active volunteer. He was very involved in Bend First United Methodist Church, on the board of High Desert Village, and a member of Kiwanis. George is survived by his wife (Joy) of 52 years. His son Shawn (Jenny), his daughter Megan and his two perfect granddaughters, Vivian and Marin, and 3 nephews and 2 nieces. A private family gathering will be held. Memorial contributions may be sent to Kiwanis Doernbecher Children's Cancer Program, 2731 NE Liberty Avenue, Gresham, Oregon 97030. Please visit the online registry for the family at www.niswonger-reynolds.com.

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George Irving Chesley

January 21, 1941 - July 11, 2020