In Remembrance of

Chester Rufus "Chet" McKay, USN

Pasco County Resident

World Word II Veteran

BIRTH


19 Oct 1910


DEATH


18 Feb 1942 (aged 31)

At Sea


BURIAL


Pine Hill Cemetery

New Port Richey, Pasco County, Florida, USA


BIOGRAPHY

Chester Rufus McKay, age 31, was the son of James and Elizabeth McKay. He was killed during World War II when the supply ship he was serving on, the Pollux, sank in the Atlantic, due to a gale, off the coast of Newfoundland.

He attended Gulf High School.

VFW Post 7987 is named in his honor.

BURIAL Pine Hill Cemetery New Port Richey, Pasco County, Florida, USA

Inscription FLORIDA BM 2C US NAVY WORLD WAR II

Memorial Day | May 30, 2022

Local News Article

McKAY, CHESTER.

Local Boy Is Listed As Lost In the Atlantic.

Parent of Chester McKay Advised That Their Son Died While On Duty At Sea.

War and what it means in terms of grief and pain and sudden death was brought sharply to the consciousness of New Port Richey and Pasco County people when news was received last Sunday by Mr. and Mrs. J. W. McKay of this city that their son Chester Rufus McKay had lost his life in line of duty while serving with the naval forces of his country in the Atlantic. It was the first casualty of the war so far announced as from this county affecting those in active duty in any war zone. Chester McKay was 31 years of age. He came to New Port Richey with his parents (illegible) years ago, and received his early education at the local schools. Fourteen years ago he enlisted in the navy and his terms of enlistment had sent him to many parts of the world. Lately he had been serving in Atlantic waters, with rank of boatswain second class, and his last address given was as a member of the crew of the supply ship Pollux, which was officially announced as being sunk in (illegible section). He was a most likable chap, and his friends were numbered by acquaintances -- and they were many. The news of his passing came to this community as a considerable shock, tempered only by the fact that all knew that he had set an example in passing by accepting his dangerous duty bravely and was staunch at his post when the final challenge came. Besides his parents survivors are three brothers: W. Allen of Brockton, Mass.; Geo. L., New Port Richey; J. Gordon, St. Petersburg. New Port Richey Press, Feb. 27, 1942.

Chester McKay

Pine Hill Cemetery