Chester Robert Gaines, 81, Tyrone, died Tuesday morning, July 3, at his residence surrounded by his family after a lengthy illness.

He was born in Elizabeth, N.J., son of the late Chester and Alwilda (Keller) Gaines. On Aug. 12, 1959, he married Gloria (Brantner) Gaines at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Tyrone.

Surviving are his wife, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage; four daughters: Linda DelGrosso and husband, Joseph, of Bellwood, Terri Larson and husband, Don, of Mozam_bique, Africa, Robin Miller of Tyrone and Jill Williams and husband, Lee, in Virginia; 15 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Annalee (Gaines) Matsko and husband, Robert, of Marysville; and his “furever” friend, Coco.

Chester was a 1955 graduate of Milton Hershey High School, Hershey, and in 1986 he graduated from Saint Francis University, Loretto. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served for nine years. After a short time with Chicago Rivet, he joined the workforce at PPG Industries, Tipton, retiring in 1999 after 33 years of service.

He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Bellwood, Tipton Volunteer Fire Department, Buick Antique Car Club, Blair County Antique Car Club and the Knights of Columbus.

Chester truly lived for his family. He loved spending quality time with his children and grandchildren and sharing his stories with them. He also enjoyed building and flying his miniature airplanes. He will be remembered for his love of his antique cars.

Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 8, 2018, at Derman Funeral Home Inc., Tyrone, where a vigil service will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, July 9, 2018, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Bellwood, Father Alan Thomas celebrant. Interment will be in Alto-Reste Park Cemetery, Altoona.