Stephen John Chaney (1/26/1946-9/23/1969)

Stephen Chaney Killed

Local Soldier Dies in Vietnam Battle

Capt. Stephen J. Chaney, 23-year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth D. Chaney of 312 Thew Ave., has been reported killed during combat in Vietnam.

The Green Beret officer was killed on Sept. 23 while on combat operations when supporting aircraft fire directed at hostile troops landed near him.

The former All-Ohio athlete was on his second Vietnam tour and in his 22nd month of duty there.

Capt. Chaney, Marion County's 16th casualty of the war, entered the Army in February, 1962. He was commissioned at Ft. Benning, Ga., Feb. 8th, 1967 and served a 14-month tour in Vietnam before he volunteered for his second tour. He was a member of the 5th Special Forces Airborne Group.

The four-year all-state Marion Catholic football star is well remembered by area sport fans for his achievements as one of Marion's finest all-around athletes.

Former Marion Catholic coach, Sheriff Max Ross said that Steve was the greatest athlete during his time at Marion Catholic.

The former coach said the single most impressive fact, standing out in his mind, was the game against Richwood in 1963 when Steve made 23 tackles.

"He was the ideal young man for a guy to coach;" said Ross. "He was just the All-American boy who had everything and worked hard to maintain it".

Capt. Chaney was born in Marion Jan. 26, 1946. His mother is the former Frances R. Irvin.

After graduation from Marion Catholic he attended Notre Dame University. He was a member of St. Mary Church.

Surviving besides his parents are a sister, Mrs. Sheila Anne Bisaillon of Forestville, MD., and grandparents, Mrs. Golda Sellers of Marion and Bert A. Chaney of Delaware.

Gunder Funeral Home will handle arrangements.