The Life of Chet Stevens
Chet Hampton Stevens, a vibrant soul with an enduring love for music, sports, and
nature, passed away on January 14, 2024, at the age of 59 in Grand Junction, Colorado.
He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever
live on in the hearts of his friends and loved ones.
Born on April 26, 1964, in San Gabrel, California, Chet's life journey was colored by a deep
appreciation for the beauty of the world around him. His childhood was marked by the love
of his parents, Kathleen and Hampton Stevens, though tragically, he lost his mother to cancer
when he was only 21 years old.
To those who knew him, Chetters was a truly unique spirit. He was never lured by the
conventional path or the “rat race”, but instead lived life on his terms, maintaining and
what some would view as an almost childishly optimistic take on his world and other
people. He never spoke ill of others, and he was always in an upbeat, adventurous good
mood. This wonderful naïveté was the core of his charm and the most endearing part of
him.
Chet's passion for music blossomed in his youth. He was the lead singer in the band
Broken Class during the vibrant Southern California music scene of the 1980s (where
he undoubtedly broke many hearts). In 1996, he made a decision to relocate to
Vancouver, BC, to care for his ailing father. In December of 2009 he moved
back to the US and settled in Grand Junction.
Throughout his life, Chet shared a special bond with his sister, Julie, who shared his love
for music. They were both avid fans of reggae, alternative/indie pop and basically
anything involving live performances. Together they were fixtures in the Colorado music
scene, frequenting venues such as Mesa Theater and Las Colonias Park in Grand
Junction, where their presence brought joy to all who knew them. In later years, Chet's
musical talents evolved to the realm of karaoke, where he delighted locals with his
captivating voice, and Elvis-like moves - leaving a lasting impression wherever he
performed!
Chet's zest for life extended beyond music; he was an accomplished athlete, excelling in
soccer and tennis during his younger years. Later in life, he found joy in friendly
competition including squash, volleyball, and pickleball with his close friends (followed
by the cherished tradition of talking smack over beers at Kannah Creek). His GJ “wolf
pack” is left with a painful hole that can never be filled.
An exceptional angler, Chet's prowess on the waters of Colorado and Gunnison rivers
was legendary, earning him respect from every bass and trout in Western Colorado. His
love for nature also manifested in his hobby as an amateur "horticulturalist," where he
cultivated some of Colorado's finest strains of marijuana, leading the vanguard of our
nation's evolving cannabis culture.
Despite life's challenges, Chet's spirit remained indomitable. Supported by his devoted
son, Steele Stevens, he faced a seven-year battle with cancer with courage and grace,
leaving behind a legacy of resilience and strength.
Chet is survived by his beloved son, Steele, and his sister, Julie, her sons Steven and
Dustin, his Aunt Debbie and his extended family including Steele’s mom Kristi, former
wife Rita, and 3 young grandsons. And of course, the pups, Leo and Hazel. He also leaves
behind a broad swath of friends and admirers whose lives were touched by his kindness,
humor, and generosity.
In honoring Chet's memory, let us celebrate the joy he brought into our lives and the
lasting impact of his vibrant spirit. Though he may be gone from our sight, his legacy
will endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
In leu of flowers, donations may be made to Happy Little Rescue in Chet's honor.
Rest in peace, dear Chet, knowing that you are forever in our hearts!
Saturday, February 24, 2024
1:00 - 4:00 pm (Mountain time)
Wine Country Inn
Visits: 157
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors