Chester Slinkard, 74, of Patricksburg, Ind., died Monday, April 26, 2004, at 4 a.m. at his residence.

He was the husband of Iva Clevenger Slinkard. He spent most of his working career in Florida at Tropicana Bottling. He was a hard worker and enjoyed woodworking and carpentry.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Johnny and Charles Slinkard; one sister, Rowena McIntire; and a son, Robert Slinkard.

He is survived by his wife; five sons, Chester Slinkard Jr. and wife Loretta of Indianapolis, Harry Slinkard and fiance Sandra Neace, Phillip Slinkard of Dayton, Ohio, Eric Slinkard of Florida and Rodney Slinkard of Florida; one daughter, Celia and Paul Brierly of Xenia, Ohio; a brother, Robert Slinkard of Fountainview, Ind.; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at French Funeral Home in Brazil. Visitation will be Wednesday from 11 a.m. until time of service. At the family's request, cremation will follow.