Longtime Kinder resident Chester Bushnell celebrated his 95th birthday with family and friends at Roy’s Catfish Hut Saturday, July 15. It was a great day full of smiles, hugs and remembering the days of when he grew up.
Chester was born July 13, 1928, to Roman and Elizabeth (Lormand) Bushnell in Indian Village. He was the ninth of 13 children. His mother Elizabeth was a full time mother and “…a wonderful cook.” His dad, Roman, was a mule skinner (logger). He worked for Martin’s Dump floating logs to Lake Charles.
Chester worked several different jobs before serving in the Air Force from 1946 to 1949.
On August 29, 1948, Chester married the love of his life, Oma Jean Duhon. They had two beautiful children—Gerald and Danna.
Chester was a Sunday School Superintendent for 30 years at the United Pentecostal Church in Kinder. He led the song service at church, and traveled with the Apostolic Crusaders singing high tenor. Those who have gotten a chance to hear him sing or testify have not missed out—he is an outstanding singer and speaker!
Chester lost his beautiful wife Jean in 2021, after 73 glorious and happy years of marriage.
“Chester still sings every day,” says his daughter, Danna, who has recently moved back to their old home place in Kinder to be with him. “He’s very much on key!”
“It is a blessing just to be around Chester,” said family friend, Wanda Carole Wrinkle Ford. “He is always smiling and laughing and making people feel good. It is a privilege and honor just to be acquainted with him, and we all have full admiration of his love for God.”
“What a perfect example of a true Christian. It is refreshing in this day and time we live in,” was another comment. “Happy 95th birthday Chester. We love you!”
