Seldon “Dean” Cheney

Seldon “Dean” Cheney, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Quincy, IL on March 10, 2024. Born on May 4, 1935, in Hancock County, IL, Dean was the beloved son of Mack and Edna (Elston) Cheney. His life was a testament to his strength, dedication, and the love he had for his family and community.

Dean’s journey began in the loving arms of his parents and amidst the bustling lives of his eight siblings. He was raised by his Aunt Dillie and Uncle Ed Carr. On July 4, 1957, he married the love of his life, Myrtle (Shuler) Cheney, in Revere, MO. Their enduring partnership was blessed with a son, Melvin Cheney (Tina) of Quincy, and a daughter, Pattie Cheney, who preceded him in death. The legacy of his love and guidance lives on through his seven grandchildren, Deana Coleman, Kevin Cheney (Krista), Brian Cheney (Shannon), Alishia Harscher (Brad), Darren Cheney, Melissa Thomas (John), and Christina Breuer (Tyler), as well as his twenty great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.

Before dedicating his life to public service, Dean proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. His commitment to his community was further exemplified through his 24 1/2 year tenure with the Quincy Police Department, where he served as a police officer. Seldon continued his career as the Chief of Police in Payson, IL until he retired in 2000. Upon retiring from law enforcement, he continued to serve his community as a Distribution Driver for the Quincy Herald Whig.

Dean was a man of many talents and interests. His hands were skilled, and he was known for his ability to fix anything with a bit of duct tape and wire. His knack for repairing cars and riding lawnmowers made him the go-to handyman for friends and family. His competitive spirit shone through during games of shuffleboard at local favorites Larry’s and Stubby’s. An avid outdoorsman, Dean cherished the times spent at his river camp in the South Bottoms and traveling across the country in his motorhome, visiting places like Canada, Florida, and the Chattanooga Mountain.

A lifelong Cubs fan, Dean’s heart swelled with pride when his beloved team clinched the World Series in 2016. He also enjoyed supporting his grandson at the Quincy Raceway, sharing in the thrill of the race. His three shih tzus, Skippy, Sassy, and Sammy, brought him immense joy, as did the playful banter with his grandchildren, who loved to vie for the title of his favorite granddaughter. Sunday drives with Myrtle by the river were a cherished tradition, as they drove past family members’ homes along the way. These simple pleasures spoke volumes of the life Dean and Myrtle built together, filled with love, laughter, and the beauty of the everyday.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, his eight siblings, his daughter Pattie Cheney, his mother and father-in-law Willard and Vera Mae Shuler, and one great-grandson, Lucas Cheney.

Dean’s life was a remarkable blend of service, family, and joy. His ability to fix anything, his dedication to those he loved, and his unwavering work ethic made him a pillar in the lives of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends.
Friends and Family are invited to Dean’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Wednesday, March 13, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL. Those attending the visitation are invited to honor Dean’s love for the Chicago Cubs by wearing team attire, if they wish.

A Funeral Ceremony will be at 11:00 am Thursday, March 14, 2024, at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home. Pastor Todd Hastings will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL.

Pallbearers will be Kevin Cheney, Brian Cheney, Darren Cheney, Brad Harscher, Tyler Breuer, and John Thomas. Honorary pallbearers will be Tom Cheney, Dan Cheney, Ron Cheney, and Jacob Reichert.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Quincy Police Department, Blessing Hospice, or the Quincy Humane Society.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.