Oldest WW2 Veteran Passes Away at Age 109

Frank Chester, a retired Royal Navy officer and recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC), has died at 109. Born in Ludlow, Shropshire, in April 1917, Chester spent the entirety of World War Two serving in the Navy before passing away at a Malvern nursing home on Sunday, just nine days after his birthday.

His daughter, Ruth Pole, described him as “very, very modest” and noted his calm demeanor, stating, “I never heard him lose his temper once, which is truly remarkable.” Chester’s legacy was marked by his dedication to duty, even as he faced the challenges of seasickness during his service. Despite this, he remained steadfast, as his daughter recalled: “The [DSC] citation basically said it was continuous bravery in the face of ongoing danger, when he could easily have just cracked. But he just ploughed on and on and on and on.”

“My dad was fab. I feel very thankful and privileged that I had such a very lovely dad, who’s given me [a] huge amount of confidence and security. Yes, I do feel very proud of him.”

Before joining the war effort, Chester worked for HM Customs and Excise. Afterward, he relocated to Walsall, where he settled for much of his adult life and eventually married Elizabeth Proud. Their relationship endured for over half a century, according to family friend Mary Rowswell. Chester also held a notable position as a First Lieutenant during the conflict, and later served in HMRC until his retirement in 1987.

Remarkably, Chester continued to contribute to his community even in his 100th year, working at a local food bank in Malvern while maintaining independence. Family accounts suggest he may have been the oldest surviving WWII veteran, as well as the third oldest man in the UK and the oldest in Worcestershire. Rowswell shared a poignant memory of his early life, noting that he was the second eldest of five siblings and had sat in a pram with his older brother, waving a flag to celebrate the end of World War One.

The Royal British Legion acknowledged Chester’s status as a potential candidate for the title of oldest WWII veteran, while his family cherished his enduring presence and resilience. Chester’s story remains a testament to quiet perseverance, blending service, family, and a lifetime of contributions to his community.

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