03/26/2026
We are sharing the news that our founder, Chester Tollefson, has died at the age of 103.
Chester and his wife, Gladys, founded Rise in 1971 as a place for their son, Loring, and others with disabilities to learn skills, build friendships, and take part in their communities. What began with just a few people grew over more than five decades into an organization that has touched thousands of lives.
While Rise has expanded, our mission has remained the same: to support people in living their lives on their own terms. That commitment is part of Chester’s enduring legacy.
All of us at Rise extend our sincere condolences to Chester’s family. We are deeply grateful for his vision and the strong foundation he leaves behind.
We invite you to join us in honoring and celebrating Chester’s long and full life.
Chester's obituary and service information can be found here: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/anoka-mn/chester-tollefson-12802011
