Chester John Woiden

We are saddened to share the loss of Chester John Woiden on May 4th, 2022, due to complications of COVID-19. He was recently predeceased by Carol, his loving wife of 64 years. He will be fondly remembered by sons, Kelly (Darlene), Cam (Lynn), and daughters, Tracey (Mark) and Sara (Brian). He is further survived by six beloved grandchildren, Denée (Brandon), Leigh-Ann, Devon (Roxanna), Kaylin (Brett), Parker (Kayla), Makenna (Logan) as well as his sister Ruby.

Chester was born on December 17th, 1930 in Young, Saskatchewan. He was a naturally gifted musician from a young age, beginning as a singer and later transitioning to the accordion after a severe ear infection altered his singing abilities. Despite never taking a lesson and being unable to read music, his accordion playing became legendary.

Chester was only 10 when his father died. As the family lived on a farm, it was not long till he left school to join the workforce. By age 18, he was employed in the oil industry where he learned the business and worked across the prairies. In 1958, he married Carol and his employment took the family around Alberta and British Columbia before finally settling in Vernon in 1969. He was no stranger to hard work, having many professions over the years to feed the family. These included driving school operator, fire chief, fire suppression sales and government liquor agent, to name a few. He finally apprenticed as a flooring contractor and laboured for decades alongside Carol, known for his attention to detail and fair prices. He filled what spare time he had with music. His band, The Evergreen Drifters, provided “music for dancing” for over 50 years throughout the BC interior and allowed him to partner with many talented musicians over the decades.

He worked as a flooring contractor into his nineties and was rarely idle. He was a Vernon Cancer Car driver for many years, was affiliated with many local clubs, such as the Eagles, Elks, Legion, and Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans. His home workshop was often in use, fixing almost anything, and enjoying the challenge of delicate accordion repair. His neighbours often benefitted from his enjoyment of snow-blowing and lawnmower maintenance. In addition to his generosity, he was known for his amazing sense of humour and many Chester-isms. He often said that he was “too old to die” and at times it seemed to his family like he never would.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Chester’s name to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation. A celebration of life befitting Chester’s love of music and a good time will be planned for a future date. Chester’s family would like to especially thank the staff and physicians on the 6th floor at VJH for their compassionate care of Chester and the entire family. Cimarron is playing, dad. We are so glad that you get to dance this one with mom.