Chet Hampton Stevens

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!