1929 – 2004

NORTH JAY – Chester L. “Chet” Gould, 74, of North Jay, died Monday morning, April 5, at his home in North Jay.

Born June 19, 1929, in North Jay, he was the youngest of four children of Ralph B. and Helen (Clifford) Gould. He attended school in North Jay, going on to graduate from Wilton Academy in 1947, where he enjoyed playing football, basketball and baseball.

Mr. Gould was a veteran, having served as a Sgt. in the U.S. Army in the motor pool of the Eastern Anti-Aircraft Defense Command at the time of his discharge in 1953. From 1947 until 1951, he was employed at G.H. Bass. Following his military service he returned to work at Bass until 1966, at which time he joined International Paper Co. in the Stock Room Dept. until 1987. From 1988, until his retirement in 1994, he was employed at Farmington Subaru and later at Franklin CPJE.

He was a life-member of the Hosmer-Edwards American Legion Post 117 of Wilton and was an Honorary Member of the Jay Fire Dept., having joined as a Junior Member when the Fire Dept. was first organized. He was a former member and Past Chancellor of Franklin Lodge Knights of Pythias. He was a communicant of St. Rose of Lima Church, Jay and enjoyed his membership in the Church Choir. Most recently he was instrumental in organizing a men’s singing group, The Franklin Chordsman.

His hobbies included playing cards, woodworking, and caring for the family dog, Bingo. Always a “people-person,” he was interested in Jay Town Government, helping with the Beano at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, caring for his family, nurturing his friendships and helping those in need.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Merrill Gould, whom he married Dec. 24, 1953, of North Jay; a sister, Marjorie G. Donald of Wilton; many nieces, nephews; two godchildren; and many dear friends.

He was predeceased by two brothers, L. Stewart Gould Feb. 25, 1978 and John C. Gould March 25.