Community says good-bye to hometown hero

Clear Lake Police Chief Rex McChesney was laid to rest Tuesday morning amid a huge outpouring of love from his community.

McChesney, 52, died Friday after a battle with pancreatic cancer.  He received the diagnosis only a short time after being named interim police chief by Mayor Nelson Crabb in February.  The 28-year veteran of the local police force embraced the position and led the department throughout the year, even while receiving cancer treatment.

“Rex was instrumental in overseeing the construction of the newly renovated City Police Department facility and left an enduring legacy of public service.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this most difficult time,” said Crabb.  The mayor read a resolution at Monday’s Council meeting to honor the memory of Rex McChesney as Chief of Police of the City of Clear Lake, Iowa and as a dedicated public servant.  He “leaves an enduring legacy of public service and perseverance that inspire all,” the resolution states.

Councilman Mike Callanan, who taught McChesney at Clear Lake High School, called him a consummate small town police officer.  “He demonstrated a great level of professionalism with his outgoing, friendly approach.  He carried himself above reproach.”

Those who worked with McChesney marveled at his ability to be a friend to all, noting a police officer’s job doesn’t always endear him to all.   

At Tuesday morning’s funeral service at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, officers from dozens of forces throughout the area stood at attention inside the perimeter of the church.  The church was filled to capacity, upstairs and down, with overflow seated in nearby Clear Creek Elementary to witness the service, show their support to family and say - Read More Via e-Edition