Herbert Chester Price (Chet), of Salida, died January 29, 2025, in Lakewood, Colorado. Chet was born on May 27, 1931, and lived all but the final year and a half in Salida. He considered it “God’s Country” and left only out of necessity and with a heavy heart. Chet attended Salida Public Schools and graduated from Salida High School in 1950. He played both sides of football, center and linebacker for the Salida Spartans, receiving a scholarship to play football at Western State College. His football career ended after his first season with another separated shoulder. He returned to Salida where he married and started his family. Chet worked for the Denver, Rio Grande, and Western Railroad, the Salida Police Department, Climax, Chaffee County Sherrif’s Office, and Salida Public Schools. He could tell you more about mining in an hour than anyone else, but his career in law enforcement was a source of immense and lifelong pride. Chet is survived by his children, son, Les (Linda), daughters, Debbie, Paula Urbaniak (Kerry), and stepson, Lee Hudson. He is survived by his grandchildren, Joshua Roberts (Heather), Timothy Price, Lauren Matherne (Matthew Smith), and Justin Matherne (Savannah); great-grandchildren Leah, Rayne, Jeremy, Nathaniel, Wynter, Aaron, Julia, and Josie, as well as nieces, nephews, and a score of family friends. Many of Chet’s children’s friends considered him a second father and huge presence in their lives. He was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma, son, Steve, great granddaughter, Katie, his parents, and siblings. Chet has been described as a “Salida Icon”. He will be missed. Memorial Services are set for 1:00 PM Saturday February 15, 2025 at Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home. Arrangements are with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home.
