Douglas R Lester

Douglas Robert Lester, age 93, of Chenango Bridge, passed away with his family by his side on February 26.

Douglas was born in Binghamton, NY to the late Helen (Forsyth Lester) Lakin.  He was predeceased by his stepfather Wilson “Tim” Lakin, sisters Jean Smith, Joyce Quain, Barbara Hall, brothers Lynn and Gerald Lester, stepbrother Eddie Lakin, sisters-in-law Diane and Karen Lester, and Delores Lakin, and brother-in-law Ken Hall.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Pat, son Charles (Chuck), brothers-in-law Tom Quain, and Ed Smith, many nieces and nephews,  devoted flower girl Donna (John) Rehak, special friends Marilyn Taggart and Lisa Warner, many long-time friends, and his church family.

After graduation from Binghamton North High School, he served in the Airforce at Ardmore, Oklahoma where he and Pat began their married life.  He worked at Ozalid until its closing, then retired from Anitec.  He was a great dad, a caring man of great wit and humor;  capturing the hearts of all who came in contact with him.

He was a member of Conklin Avenue First Baptist Church for 75 years, and when he was able,  enjoyed gardening, walking his dogs, bowling, and volunteering at Meals on Wheels.  He and Pat experienced world travel together as well as a lifetime of social activities.  He looked forward to outings for lunch, dinner, or ice cream (not chocolate).

The family would like to extend their gratitude to all those who helped in so many ways throughout the difficult time of his illness, including Twin Tier Home Health, and Hospice caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Douglas’ memory to Conklin Avenue First Baptist Church, 91 Baldwin St. Binghamton, NY 13903  or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org)

Funeral services will be held at Conklin Avenue First Baptist church on March 16, 2024, at 11 am, with visitation from 10 am to the time of the service. A celebration of life luncheon will be held immediately following.