Alan Wayne Chidester

Alan "Al" Chidester, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, at the age of 84. Al lived a full and well-loved life. He is survived by his wife Carolyn of 28 years; daughters Lisa (John) and Kristen (Jeremy), granddaughter Clio Gentry, and son Scott; sister Nadine, niece Kathryn, and nephew David; sister-in-law Melinda Rasul (David), nephew David, nieces Nena (Lydia) and Veronica (Richard), and great-niece Venezia.

Al devoted more than 59 years to a distinguished career in law enforcement, serving with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, the State of California Department of Justice, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, Cal Expo State Police, and the California State Lottery. Beyond his law enforcement career, Al gave 30 years of his time as a volunteer at the Sacramento Jazz Festival, where he wore many hats — bartending and helping with overall logistics to keep the event running smoothly. He loved every minute of it: the people, the music, the camaraderie, and the pure joy the festival brought.

He took tremendous pride in his work and in the colleagues, he guided along the way, advancing through the ranks at each agency and finding deep satisfaction in mentoring those who served alongside him. His leadership left a lasting mark on everyone he worked with.

One of the highlights of his career was his time with the California State Lottery in an undercover capacity, traveling the state to expose store employees who pocketed winning tickets after telling customers their tickets had lost — only to be caught on video when they came to collect the winnings themselves. Al and his team were featured twice on Dateline with Chris Hansen and Keith Morrison, with Al characteristically dressed in one of his beloved Hawaiian shirts.

Al was born in Vallejo, California at Vallejo General Hospital. His family later moved to Fairfield and then to West Sacramento, where he graduated from James Marshall High School. Al attended Consumnes River College and Sacramento State where he also taught criminal justice.

Outside of work, Al lived with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything. He loved snow skiing, boating (with a standing stop at the Virgin Sturgeon), houseboat trips, the ocean, and especially his travels to Maui. Over the years he also cherished his visits to Texas to visit his daughter, Lisa. A Korbel and water was his drink of choice, and few things made him happier than gathering with friends and family over good wine and great laughter. Al had quick wit and loved to make people smile!

Burial will be private, with arrangements by East Lawn of Elk Grove. A Celebration of Life is anticipated for October 2026, date to be determined. Hawaiian attire is warmly encouraged.

Al led a life well worth celebrating — rich with love, laughter, and dedication. He was cherished by many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Somewhere, we're sure, he's raising a glass to family, friends, and his fellow officers