Major General Chester E. Gorski

CUMMINGTON – Major General Chester E. Gorski, Massachusetts Army National Guard (Retired), 93, of Shaw Road, passed away peacefully at his beloved home on Sunday evening, surrounded by family.

Chester, known to many as “Chet”, was born in Chicopee and graduated from local schools. He also pursued higher education, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree from Anna Maria College. A dedicated athlete, he excelled in both basketball and baseball in the local semi-pro leagues.

Chet embarked on a distinguished career with the Massachusetts Army National Guard, ultimately rising to the rank of Major General. He served as the Commander of the 26th “Yankee” Infantry Division and retired with full honors in 1991. Throughout his 42-year career, he earned numerous military decorations and commendations including the Distinguished Service Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal, reflecting his steadfast dedication and leadership. In 1993, Chet was inducted into the Massachusetts Military Academy Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame. His service and sacrifice are remembered as a testament to his character and patriotism.


A proud member of the Polish Center of Discovery and Learning in Chicopee, Chet served on its board and was a long-time supporter. In his honor, a display commemorating his long and meritorious service as Commander with the Massachusetts Army National Guard’s 26th “Yankee” Infantry Division stands in the Armed Forces gallery at the Center, a testament to his dedication to both country and community.

In his retirement, Chet embraced a life of joy and hard work on his 26 acres of cherished woodland property in Cummington. Whether tending to blueberries, gardening, snowmobiling, golfing, cutting and splitting firewood or simply riding his tractor, Chet found peace in the outdoors. Above all, he treasured time spent with family, creating memories during holidays and gatherings that he held close to his heart.

Chet was predeceased by his beloved wife of 52 years and forever sweetheart, Jacquelyn (Powers) Gorski, who passed away on January 26, 2008. He is survived by his children, Michael Gorski and his wife Susan of Hampden; Maureen Lavigne of Cummington; Susan Labrie and her husband Robert of Goshen; and Mary Gorski and her partner Melissa Krueger of Williamsburg. His cherished grandchildren, Heather, Shannon, Kristen, Sarah, Alyssa, and Hannah, and two great-grandchildren, Morgan and Ryder, will carry forward his legacy. Chet was also loved by many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice for the truly compassionate care provided to Chet during his final days.

Friends and family are invited to gather on Friday, November 22, 2024, at AHEARN FUNERAL HOME, 783 Bridge Road, Northampton, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at Our Lady of the Hills Church in Haydenville at 11:00 a.m. Burial services with full military honors will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Leeds.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Goshen Firefighters Association, P.O. Box 871, Goshen, MA 01032, or to the Polish Cultural Center, c/o Polish Center at Elms College, 33 South St., Chicopee, MA 01013.