1950-2026
Raeleen Chesney, 75, of Hutchinson, passed at her residence February 24, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. She was born June 27, 1950, in Salina, Kansas, to Ernest and Margaret (Barton) Stehno.
Raeleen was raised in Lucas, Kansas, where she graduated high school in 1968. She attended Fort Hays State University where she attained her Certified Nursing Assistants license. Raeleen worked at the Mennonite Manor for many years. She retired from Kansas Department of Children and Families after 18 years of service.
Raeleen’s focus in life was her family. She cherished family time whether during Christmas Eve celebrations or just visiting in her home. Raeleen spent countless hours crafting, quilting, and crocheting making her the “quintessential grandmother.”
Raeleen’s greatest legacy is one of friendship. She was always willing to lend a helping hand, a shoulder to cry on, or to just share a story at the grocery store. Her children often joked that, “you can’t take Mom anywhere because she knows everyone.”
In 1993, Raeleen met Robert Reed. They shared 33 years of life together as devoted partners.
Raeleen is survived by her beloved spouse, Robert Reed of Hutchinson; children, Dede Lorson of Abilene, Jason (Tammy) Chesney of Nickerson, Crystal (Jason) Cunningham of Hutchinson, Justin (Erynn) Chesney of Hutchinson, and Elizabeth (James) Carter of (Blue Springs, MO); step-children, Edie (Eric) Shuff of Derby, Ivan Reed of Wichita, and Gene (Tiffeney) Reed of Hutchinson; 31 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and sister, Delma (Bryce) Naegele of Lucas.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Margaret Stehno, and one brother.
Celebration of life will take place Thursday, March 5, 2026, at three o’clock p.m. at Crossroads Christian Church 4310 N. Monroe, Hutchinson, Kansas. A private burial will take place in Lucas, Kansas, with immediate family.
Cremation has taken place. Arrangements were made by Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main Hutchinson, KS 67501.
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