Frank Alden McChesney of Wellfleet, 91, died Friday, November 11th. He was the husband of Priscilla (Paecht) McChesney.
Born in Newark, New Jersey, the son of Col. Frank and Margaret (Hooper) McChesney, he was a direct descendant of John Alden and Priscilla Mullins. After graduating from Hillside High School, NJ, in 1943, he joined the US Merchant Marine. When asked about his service, Mr. McChesney recalled "I made so many trips across the Atlantic, I lost count." He witnessed numerous ships being blown up all around him, but was always lucky to survive and continue his service. During D-Day, Mr. McChesney served on ships off Normandy Beach, delivering solders, supplies and armament to the invasion force. After World War II, he served 2 years in the US Army Infantry.
Beginning his career in retail, Mr. McChesney quickly transitioned to the banking industry, where he had a long and successful career. He was highly regarded by clients and peers alike, retiring as a senior vice-president at National State Bank of New Jersey in 1985. He graduated from American Institute of Banking and attended New York University.
Mr. McChesney, a proud Mason, was a lifelong member of Lafayette Masonic Lodge 27, Rahway, New Jersey.
In addition to his wife Priscilla, he is survived by his stepchildren Ellen (Jonathan) Hatch of Northport, NY; Scott (Lisa) Baxter of Paradise Valley, Arizona; David Baxter of Seabrook Beach, New Hampshire. He leaves grandchildren David and Scott Hatch, Creighton and Lily Baxter, Christopher, Taylor, Lindsey and Timothy Baxter. He also leaves sister-in-law Betty McChesney and her son James of Safety Harbor, Florida. His brother, William Hooper McChesney, predeceased him.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Beacon Hospice and Seashore Point for their care.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Requiem Eucharist Service on Friday, November 25 at 10:30 am at St. Mary of the Harbor Episcopal Church, 517 Commercial St, Provincetown.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary of the Harbor Episcopal Church or Beacon Hospice, 259 Willow Street, Unit 2, Yarmouth Port, MA 02675.