Iron Mountain-Chester J. Briggs, 98, of Niagara, WI, passed away Friday, May 27, 2016 at the Golden Living Center, Florence WI.

He was born on April 8, 1918 in Pentoga, Mich., son of the late Watson and Goldie (Reno) Briggs. At a young age the family relocated to Kingsford and Chester graduated from Kingsford High School, Class of 1937. He served in the United States Army in the Pacific during WWII. After his Honorable Discharge, Chester returned to Kingsford and began a career in retail building supplies. He managed businesses in Iron River (1948-1965) and Marquette, MI (1965-1980). Chester was united in marriage to Elizabeth Massage in 1943. She preceded him in death in 1977. Chester later married Evelyn Curtis. She preceded him in death in 2012.

He was a member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Iron Mt. and a past member of St. Pauls Episcopal Church, Marquette. Chester enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing, reading and studying history. In later years he became a backyard ornithologist and enjoyed taking long walks.

Chester is survived by a son, Robert (Judith) Briggs of Crystal Falls, two daughters, Mary Elizabeth (Tony) Azevedo of Ocean Side, Calif, Janet Turriff, Saratoga, Calif. One daughter-in-law, Susan Curtis, Bedford, Texas, 9 grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wives, Elizabeth and Evelyn, he was preceded death by brothers; Lester and Allen Briggs, one son, Thomas Curtis and one son-in-law, Lowell Turriff.

Private family graveside services will be held in Park Cemetery Marquette, MI.

You may light a candle in remembrance of Chester or leave a condolence for his family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com.

The family has chosen the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, to honor Chester legacy of life.