Kenneth “Ken” A. Lester

ROCKFORD - Kenneth “Ken” A. Lester, 90, of Rockford, IL, passed away Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at Wesley Willows. Born January 12, 1934, in Winona, MN, the son of Everett and Isabella (Einhorn) Lester. Veteran of the Korean conflict, serving in the U.S. Air Force. He married Sylvia A. Snider on June 15, 1957, in Rockford. Employed by Clarcor, formerly J.L. Clark, for 40 years. Member of St. Bridget Catholic Church. Ken traveled with Vets Roll to Washington DC in May of 2015. He loved to travel, especially on cruise ships with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Ken spent many times fishing on the Rock River with his brother, Ron. He loved to ride his bike on paths along the river. Survivors include his daughter, Lynn (Jim) Wood; sons, Jim (Cheryl) Lester, and Rob Lester; grandchildren, Stephanie (Brad) Eller, Liz (Bryan) Miller, Lexie (Nate) Phillips, Tom (Kala) Lester, Dan Lester, Zac (Kristin) Lester, and Eric Lester; great-grandchildren, Cody, Nolan, Christopher, Alexander, Philip, and Magnolia; sister, Adabelle Scarpitto; stepbrother, Phil (Kathy) Manni; brother-in-law, Chuck (Darla) Garlock; numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents; stepfather, Lory Manni; his wife, Sylvia of 56 years; infant son, Mark Allen Lester; brother, Ronald Lester; and sisters, Pat Brackett and Gloria Dermer.

Visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL. Mass of the Resurrection at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Ave., Loves Park. Cremation rites accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Northern Illinois Hospice, Vets Roll or Wesley Willows Good Samaritan Fund.