Chester J. Druzba

Chester John Druzba, 92, of Muhlenberg Township, died August 25, 2009 in the Reading Hospital.

He was married May 14, 1983 to Phyllis Marie (Sparr) Druzba.

Born in his Reading residence on February 19, 1917, he was a son of the late John and Antoinette (Lewandowski) Druzba.

He was a member of Holy Guardian Angels Roman Catholic Church, Hyde Park.

Chester was a 1934 graduate of Reading High School.

He was employed 23 years with the City of Reading Recreation Department and later with the Bank of Pennsylvania, Reading, before retiring in 1982.

Chester was honored as the sportsman of the year in 1997 by the Berks Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame for his dedication and service to the youth and athletes of Reading and Berks County for a half century, organizing various teams from midget to adult leagues, notably in baseball and basketball.

He also served as secretary/manager for a number of teams including the Clover Farms Class A Baseball Team and the State Championship Gregg Post Legion Team of 1947.

Chester also was a scout for the Detroit Tigers and a coordinator and president of the Lebanon Valley Semi-Pro Baseball League.

He is also survived by two step-children: Susan E. (McMichael), wife of John E. Shaffer of Wernersville and Timothy P., husband of Karen M. (Lubas) McMichael of Kenhorst.

Other survivors include four grandchildren: Nathan L., husband of Rebecca (Gusic) Shaffer; Wesley Z. McMichael; Justin L. McMichael and Amber L. McMichael and one great grandson, Quinton A. Shaffer.

Also surviving is an aunt, Valeria Lewandowski and a life long family friend, Joseph Serrano, both of Muhlenberg Township.

Chester was predeceased by a sister, Florence B. Gillmor.

Prayer Services will be held Friday at 10:00 am in Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale, with Rev. Christopher M. Zelonis celebrating. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services in the funeral home. Burial will be in Gethsemane Cemetery, Muhlenberg Township.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Olivet's Boys and Girls Club. For online condolences, visit www.christfuneralhome.com