Chester BORROWS Obituary

Chester, Not a moment that I don't think of you my friend. You were a gem to work with. Truly an honour and privilege.

Ella, so sad that Chester has passed away much too young. I have such fond memories of having him as a colleague and how much he did for so many people, particularly young people, in his capacity as a fence council. How you will miss him. sending you our love, Yvonne King, Claudia and Fraser and families.

To Ella, Zac, Abi and Katy, my deepest sympathy to you all, a great man has fallen and heaven has gained him. So sadly missed by so many.

Went to college with Chester and was a really decent person way back then too, always stood up for the underdog and never forgot a friend. Gone too soon. Always a place in my heart for you mate.

Living remotely I have just learned of Chester´s passing so could not attend his funeral. As a former Green Party MP, I shared 6 years in Parliament with Chester, and enjoyed his warmth, compassion and frequently shared positions on the world around us. He said a number of times how he was more aligned with the Greens on particular issues, and I appreciated his positions and caring guidance in the Primary Production committee. I considered Chester a friend at Parliament within the political context and I appreciated his attending my valedictory event. My sadness at this time recognises the humanity that Chester had for the people and also the cheeky sparkle in his character. Much love

To Ella, Zac, Abi and Katy. I only found out a couple of days ago that Chester had passed away. I am saddened that I did not make it to the celebration of his life. It was many years ago that I met Chester through my involvement with you Ella at the South Taranaki Free Kindergarten Assn. You both befriended me, and my daughter Jess became friends with Katy. I will always cherish the kindness and friendship you bestowed from that time. I have followed Chester's career path with interest. He was an authentic and intelligent man who always stayed true to himself and loved his family to bits. My thoughts are with you all at this time, but how blessed you are to have had him for a husband and a father. Arohanui xx

I remember the song 'Jesus wants me for a sunbeam' us kids used to sing together 60+ years ago at Annesbrook Church of Christ. Chester obviously wholeheartedly lived those words daily throughout his incredibly well-lived life. Reading these beautiful memories from so many clearly confirms he certainly was an amazing Sunbeam who shone for Jesus each day. He got it right. My heart goes out to you all so much.

While on a Police search for "weed" I was a member of the Stratford SAR and we stayed at Aotuhuia shearing quarters. Chester accessed a horse and, when he fell off made a big dent in the ground. We, including Chester all thought this a hilarious highlight. He was unhurt and able to laugh at himself, a gift. A very humorous and genuine human being who will be sadly missed.
My sincere condolences to all his family.

To Ella and family, our condolences on the loss of a very special man. Chester became part of our extended family in 1995/96 and through his never ending determination and action 'outside the square' he brought our girl home. You treated us with compassion and helped maintain our sense of composure at a time of immense stress. Chester you have done so much for so many. We will never forget you. RIP.
Richard and Brenda Guy

Diann and I were saddened by the news of Chester´s death.The huge crowd at his funeral yesterday said more than my mere words Ella but rest assured that we will continue to pray for both of you and your families.

Condolences to the family, Chester was a fantastic genuine man who helped me in my hour of need. Will be missed

To Ella and family sincere condolences on your loss. Chester was a wonderful caring person and will be a great loss in our community.
R I P Chester.

Such sad news. Chester was a rare kind of person, competent in so many roles. He could deal with people from all walks of life with such ease and fairness and he got his energy from getting things done in this world. Manutahi beach will always hold memories of Chester walking his dog... thoughts are with Ella & the kids

My husband Tim (Russ) would always be so proud to claim his family connection to Chester, saying that he was such a man of integrity and passion in whatever role he took on. I know he will be missed on so many different levels. Love to you all as you learn to live with him in a new place.

Chester thank you for being such a kind and generous friend and mentor, from our time at law school and beyond. For the free car rides home, the entertaining stories and advice along the way. In later years you were always at the end of the phone as we both began practising law. Thank you for being you. For your humour kindness and staunch resolve to do what you believe. You will be missed. Much love to Ellie, Zac, Abi and Katie. Alofa Atu.
Emma Va'ai (Davis) and Welfare Va'ai

I livestreamed the ceremony for Chester as I was unable to attend. Such an emotional send off for one of the nicest people Gavin and I have known.
The Chester we knew was the dedicated, loving and caring family man. Abi and our daughter Charlene have been inseparable since their "kindy kids" days.
I know that Chester will be missed by so many.
Sending love and Hugs xx

One of the truely good guys, taken way to soon. Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. Linda & Wayne Jury.

I practiced in the same law firm as Chester in Taranaki in the mid 00s.

A genuinely good human.

My condolences to his family and friends.

We remember with great fondness, the times Chester ministered the Word at Waverley Baptist church! May his wonderful legacy in all the different areas, he served in. bear fruit that remains. In our thoughts and prayers. Rex and Christine Standen.

Condolences to you all,
I have truely very precious memories that will be kept close to me.
R.I.P. Chester
Beth Johnson

Have fond memories of sharing time with you (and Ella) as a team member of the Soke Presidents rugby team in the early 80s. Even then, you exhibited all the fine qualities that have echoed recently. Best regards to Ella and family

Chester, a true gentleman. I was surprised recently, when we crossed paths, that he remembered my name, having not seen him for many years. Gratefully, I had the brief pleasure of a chat with Chester. Proud to claim him as one of ours in South Taranaki and thankful for all you have done for our communities. Sincere condolences Ella and your family. Chester will be missed.

Chester you were with me back in 1989 when i was going through a tough time with my brother..i will never forget how you helped us through it. Sincere condolences to the family....R.I.P Chester

Dear Ella, Zac, Abi and Katy,
We are all so sorry to hear of Chester's passing. A friend for many years and a lifetime of great memories. One of life's true Gentlemen.
Rest Easy.
Angus and Sue Finlayson and Family

RIP Chester...The size of the hat did not matter NZ Police, MP, community leader, everyone was important to you regardless of their own spectrum...Central Taranaki Search & Rescue thanks you for your help....we will remember you.
Our condolences to all the families..

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Not many can claim to have shared a bed with Chester. I did! Albeit accidentally when returning home to my parents late one night while campaigning in Whanganui.
Chester worked tirelessly and always with humility and respect. He had an ability to connect with all people of any age.
Sincere condolences from the wider Bennett family who very much enjoyed hosting Chester and what he bought to our home. We will remember him fondly.
Rest now in peace my old bed mate. It´s all yours!

My deepest sympathies for your loss. I remember your wonderful words you spoke of my uncle Graham Campbell at his funeral. RIP.

Sending you all so much love Ella. Chester was just the best and he will a big gap in individuals lives as well as the community. May he dance on streets of gold and receive a much deserved reward.

Kia Ora Ella - we were saddened to hear of Chester´s passing - we shared many lovely hours during his season of lay preaching support to the Opunake Co / operating Parish , and we enjoyed many hours of lively political conversations. He adored you and your family.
Arohanui from Mary and Dave Nicholas

Mum asked me to pass on her apologies to Ella and Family and Debbie. Sorry we won't be able to be with you, but at the age of 88 Mum doesn't think she can travel so far now. We have fond memories of Chester doing haymaking as a teenager. He preferred Mum's cooking to Aunty Bet's so he would come over when he could. We have been blessed having Chester as a cousin.

Love and blessings from Bev Dudding and Jenny Coleman.

Chester was a devoted MP, bringing a strong local voice to Wellington on behalf of the people of Whanganui. It´s not often that an MP can command the attention and respect from every side of the political spectrum but Chester was never afraid to stand-up for what he believed in. He was a man of principle and always had the courage of his convictions.

On behalf of the National Party, I send my condolences to Chester's wife Ella, his three children, and his wider family and friends.

To Ella and Family
Please know that I am thinking of you all as you grieve and adjust to life without your dear husband, father and Grandad.
I havent seen any of you for years ( but I did call into Kerrys office one day to try and say hello not long before he left Wanganui as MP) Sadly he wasnt in.
I also have admired his great example in all of his capacities over the years and know that he is sadly missed.
Blessings
Sandra Broomfield( Davis)

Deepest condolences to Chesters family at this sad.
One true gentleman gone too soon. Fly high pain free xx

To the Borrows Family
My deepest condolences on the death of Chester.
In my 20 years at Hawera's Whareroa site with Kiwi Dairies and Fonterra I had many occasions to work with be in contact with Chester. A man who sort the facts and information who was knowledgeable and made time for those in all walks of life. Cancer has taken one of the good guys who had so much more to contribute.
With sympathy. Mike Corbett

To Ella so sad to read the passing of such a great guy in so many ways. 1st got to no Chester when one work @ the HD court many yrs back, a very professional guy & a straight shooter no fuss straight to the point & was a great leader in all respects. I was able to lean on Chester to conduct the sevice of our late son a few yrs back. It certainly wont be the same not seeing him around with Red not being to far away from him. Helen & my thoughts go out to you all @ this sad time, Stay strong & together.

Chester, you worked with my dad, Taffy at the old Hawera Police Station, with Uncle Leith Snr Sgt at the time & my Godfather & also with Basil Webb. You will be sadly missed. To Ella & whanau, my love, thoughts & prayers are with you all at this sad time. Kia kaha. xxxx

Thinking of you all at this very sad time. Cut down in his prime Chester still had so much to offer. RIP

Ella and family...your Chester was such a lovely man, and achieved so much...his life was a gift to so many people, he has certainly made the world a better place. Sending you Arohanui at this difficult time.
Claire Barrett and whanau.

To Ella and family, my family and I send you all our heart felt condolences with the passing of Chester. My whole family met Chester in 2005 when 4 of our family died in a car accident, Chester not only did a beautiful service for them but he gave us all sincere kindness and support during that time and then was there for us again when our dad passed 3years ago. Please know that Chester was such a kind, beautiful and sincere man and he touched so many lives in a way that he will never be forgotten. We sincerely feel for your loss.
Audrey & Brian Sayer & family,
Gordon & Lynely Marshall & family,
Peter Marshall & family,
Janet & John Louden & family

Thoughts go out to all the Borrows whanau. A great loss for both you and the wider community. Chester and I were in the Joe Saunders Wing, worked together in CIB. When I think of Chester, it is the smile and twinkle in his eyes, his genuineness and his commitment to what ever he did. The Allan family were honoured that Chester led the funeral service for our Dad, who he had also worked with in the Police. Chester may have left us in the physical sense, but he will always be in our memories.

Chester, it was an honour working alongside you in the Hutt CIB in the 1980's. You were a dedicated officer and gave so much of your life to helping people. The world has been made a better place by your presence, and losing you will be felt by many. You will be missed but your memory will live on. Condolences to your family.

Chester was a good bloke. We knew him through his sister, Debbie. A personable, friendly and easy-going fella, easy to get to know and came from a lovely family.
sincere condolences to Ella and the Family.
Max & Elspeth Grey
Christchurch

RIP Chester, one of the most genuine down to earth guys I have ever met.

Chester an awesome hardworking bloke that provided great leadership to us all at Stratford ,the first detective appointed to that station. Memories include Chester playing prop for the Taranaki police team and steering the Goodwin homicide inquiry for which he was honoured.He had an awesome sense of humour and an infectious laugh! Condolences to Ella and whanau
Chiz and Karin

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Our sincere condolences to you Ella and your family.
Bill and Judy Stuart

So sad to hear of Chester's passing, many great memories working with him at hawera district court, a real good buggar and true gentleman, my condolences to all the family x

To Ella and family. On behalf of my family Colin & Barbara Prentice and my brother Gary and my self. Our condolence to the passing of Chester. Who was taken to soon. I remember meeting Chester and Ella at the st Luke church in Patea in 83, 84. He was an awesome guy who got on well with alot of the young teenagers at youth group and surporter of the Patea boys brigade. R.I.P Chester. From Alison Mudgway (nee Prentice)

Sincere condolences to Ella and family. We have fond memories of Chester in the late 1980s, when he was the policeman and we were the GPs in Patea. RIP Chester.

Chester was a man of remarkable achievements one who could work across the isle and a genuinely good bloke. We served on a number of select committees together, he served as Deputy Speaker of the house, I always found him to be an honest straight shooter, someone I throughly enjoyed working with, someone who was passionate about his local community and an all round throughly decent bloke. My sympathy and condolences to his family.

I knew Chester when he was the Minister for Courts and the MP for Whanganui. He was an intelligent man who cared about people and would always stop and talk to you. I was deeply sorry to hear we have lost a great man at what is a young age.

Thinking of his family

Vanessa Boyle

Dear Ella and family, you probably won´t remember me but when Chester was the Policeman in Patea I lived across the road in the school house with Mike and Jan. My condolences to you and your family. Hopefully he will catch up with Jan in heaven as she passed in 2013. Love and hugs and god bless you all xoxo

A truely gentle Police Prosecutor- I have many happy memories of working alongside you in Court - those were the days! - love and sympathy to you Ella and family - Megan Crawshaw

Condolences to the family
1st from my Dad Basil Webby
& my mum Betty Anderson
& from me and my children
You were part of our life as a policeman in Hawera as we were growing up..me as a teenager then a mum..like many uncles in the Hawera Police Force ..a family..Thank You for being MC at my dads funeral your speech was loving and so true..i just want to say you are a huge totara tree that has fallen in our family & the community of Hawera
R.I.P Chester

Borrows family sorry for your loss condolences, RIP Chester. The team at Bailey Motorcycles.

very sad to hear of Chester passing. A great man who did so much in his life.

To Chester Borrows Family

That was a sad moment when I heard the news of Chester´s passing in the radio yesterday..

He gone so early of his age but we all have to one day..

Our thoughts & prayers to Eilla & the family..

I am sharing a photo of himself with our family as a memory when we received our citizenship in the council office in February 2016

Rest Easy Chester the town & community will miss you..

Please accept our condolences

The Butt Family
Ali - Saba - Haris - Soha

To Mrs Borrows and Family, Sincere Condolences on Chesters passing. May the memories get you through this sad time and everyday after that. Kind Regards. Shane and Cindy Schuler & Family.

Ella & Family,
My thoughts are with you all at this very sad time. Chester has given so much to so many over the years, gone too soon. Sincerely, Rex Ansley.

Sending my deepest condolences to Ella and family. Chester was such a strong supporter of schools over the years. Love and sympathy Raewyn Rooney

To Ella & Family,
We are so sorry to read of your loss of Chester, a wonderful man to so many, whom you will all miss dearly. Our thoughts are with you all, holdfast to the memories as they become so precious. Take care of each other, Maree & Grant Weir

Ella, sending my love and deepest sympathy to you and your family. I knew Chester when he was in parliament. He was a great guy taken too soon.

Rest in love and peace Chester

Peleina Cousin Ella, your children Zac, Abi, Katy their Partners and Grandchildren... it's definitely a sad week hearing of Chester's passing. Over the years meeting up with him in the Domestic Lounge it was great hearing him walk in and call out "Hi Cuz" I knew straight away it was Chester! An MP so loving to his District and Family. Rest in Peace and in Love Cuz... Alofa tele atu Tevaga and Joyce Amosa-Leavasa (Manukau) xx

St John´s in Kaponga would like to send our sincere condolences to Ella and family.
It has been our privilege to get to know Chester as part of our church family bringing thought provoking sermons.
Chester had the ability to bring the Bible into practice. He exhibited Jesus's humility and compassion for those whose circumstances makes life more challenging.
Chester allowed his life to be formed by his faith.
We are all devastated by Chester's passing and know how much more as family you will feel his absence. It is good to know he is in a place prepared for him without any more pain but sad that Chester had so much more to contribute and life to live
We all just want to give you a big hug Ella and the rest of your family
Love from your st John's church family

We are proud to have known and worked with Chester. Such a great person, one of life´s good buggers. Condolences to Ella and the family. So sorry for your loss.

At peace and safe in the arms of Jesus x

To Ella and Family,

Our sincere condolences for your loss - we send you all our love. Such a legacy he has left for everyone to remember. From his support of many causes, the work for local communities and for NZ from his parliamentary career, through to the joy be brought with his painting and facebook posts with the legendary Red at his side. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

Thank you Chester for being such a example of community leadership. Aroha for all, wise, strong and humble. E au tou moe e te rangatira. Much love to you, Ela, and all your children and grandchildren.

Chester and I went through Law School together. He was an honest decent bloke. He was a person of faith, who expressed his beliefs, by doing, by just being decent. Every morning, while at Law School we would have a cheese scone at Gale´s Cafe. On a weekly basis there were the $5.00 breakfasts at Leuven on Featherston Street. We would later keep in touch and we would always "get on." I disagreed with a lot of what occurred under his time as a minister, but we remained mates. Some time later Chester sat on the Parole Board and it was a pleasure to appear before boards on which he sat as part of the panel. He loved his wife, family and his community. Rest well mate, I will miss you

Rest In Peace my old friend. Wing mate, Section mate and friend since 29 January 1975 when we started that journey at Trentham. A man who did not compromise on his values and always put others before himself. I will miss you Chester. Until we meet again mate. Russ.

I have memories of us playing rugby for Athletic and as part of the front row club he always enjoyed a beer and good discussion on any topic.
A truely nice guy.

An amazing contribution to our lives- much respected member of NZ Police... sadly missed

A sad day for out comunity.
Chester was a good guy a good MP and a very good friend.
A strong comunity leader has been lost to soon.
Deepest sympathy to Ella and the whole family.
RIP Chester.
Kindest Regards Shane and Cathy Ardern

Everything everybody has said as Chester was such a good bloke in so many ways, but we have also lost a very talented artist too and as for that the world is a sadder place.

What a wonderful generous human being with a heart of gold will be missed by many our love to Ella and family from Sue Foley and Byron and Adina Foley who had the incredible privilege of being married by Chester. Arohanui

To Ella and family,
Sorry to hear of Chester's passing, he has left you all with wonderful memories that you will treasure. He was such a great friend and confidante to so many people he helped over the years. From Brian Harris of Katikati, formerly of Hawera.

Feeling for you Ella and the wider family. Chester was an outstanding Parliamentarian, community man but over and beyond those attributes a beloved and wise family man.His loss will be felt widely by the Community but .......oh so dearly by his immediate family. Alison Rumball

RIP Chester. To the family and friends sorry to hear the loss of a really awesome person. You are suffering no more mate. Not goodbye it is until we meet again

Just knowing Chester was an absolute honour. To be able to chat with him so often inspirational. He was one of a kind who will be fondly remembered by all who came in contact with him and for his distinguished actions in assisting others.
Condolences to Ella and family.
Kay and Mike Legge

Ella, Zac, Abi & Katy, you have been in our thoughts. We wish you lots of love and hugs as you navigate the next moments xx all our love Courtney and Ryan Cambie x

Chester (Kerry as I knew him) were friends in a much younger lifetime. I found him inspirational gently uncompromising, funny, aware, and kind. Though it is decades since we were in the same place or even communicated I have followed his stellar career with great interest. People like me can have great confidence when we know there are people like him, with a character like him, with insight like him, with courage like him, with intentionality like him, who are also leaders in our country in such sensitive and crucial pursuits such as justice, law and order. The comment has been made that we are the poorer for his passing. While that is true, let me suggest we are infinitely richer because of his life well lived. I didn't know his family but he and Ella were a team of greatness. My best wishes and a Godly spirit of comfort extends to you all.

Hi Ella
Sorry to hear of your loss. Best regards Murray HCST

Fondly remembered, with such an incredible legacy he will leave. Proudly own a piece of Chester's art, which is very treasured.
Condolences to Ella and family in these sad times x

Chester. God only takes the best and my god you are truely the best. To your wife and family my heart goes out to you all. If it wasn´t for Chester I might not be here today as he got me out of a very bad marriage and gave me my life back. I can´t speak highly enough of him. I hope I have made you proud. Rest in Peace my friend. I will never forget you and what you did for me and my family.

Chester was an incredibly modest and humble person who achieved much for his community and greater New Zealand. He leaves behind an incredible legacy and will remain in the hearts and thoughts of many. Condolences to Ella and family.

Ella and family. How sad we all are to see Chester has passed away. A huge loss to your family and the wider world as he touched so many people in so many ways throughout his career. A wonderful family man, Police Officer and Parliamentarian.
May the love and care of family and friends help you navigate this difficult time. A truly remarkable man who will be sorely missed by so many.

Chester if only the tide could be turned back at will- if only those doggy pawprints in the sand can still be followed, and the stick rescued from the wave dropped at your feet once more. If only the shed had not blown down in that storm. If only I had listened more to the best celebrant I have ever had the privilege to work with- if only I could fully comprehend the pain you Ella, and you his precious family, are facing, not by choice, but by force, then I might just might be able to understand why mankind is even a part of of this amazing realm we call creation. Someone may have an answer. All I have is my love and my prayers for you. Surely there is more.