Lester –Albert Edward Lester, of Rolling Hills, passed away on September 18th, 2024 at the age of 96 years. Albert was born on April 10th, 1928, in Bracken, Saskatchewan, to Dave and Mabel Lester. He was the second of three sons. The family relocated from Bracken to Rolling Hills in 1940 to participate in the new irrigation project through the P.F.R.A. Albert married the love of his life, Joan Holt, on August 18th, 1953 and together they raised six children- Patricia, Georgina, Colleen, Barbara, David and Kathleen. The farm in Rolling Hills was his “home”, beginning first with his parents, Dave and Mabel, and brothers, Jack and Bill. In later years, Albert farmed with his son, David, who was also his best friend. He actively farmed well into his nineties, which kept him young and fit.
Stephen Hawking stated that “Quiet people have the loudest minds”, which accurately described Albert. His genius was proven in many ways, as he was often the man behind the scenes, quietly planning, fabricating, repairing, inventing and engineering solutions for various projects on the farm and in the community. He never needed accolades or recognition for his accomplishments, just quietly went about his way. One of his many passions was aviation, beginning with Air Cadets when he was young. After earning his private pilot’s licence, he belonged to the Brooks Flying Club, owning a share in a Cessna plane, much to the delight of his family. He loved attending Flames games, having coffee at the garage, listening to Johnny Cash and Don Messer and reading the Rolling Hills history books, which were his favourites. Albert was genuinely loved by his family and respected within the community. He was pre-deceased by his beloved wife, Joan, his parents, Dave and Mabel Lester, his brothers, Jack and Bill Lester, his father and mother-in-law, Jack and Marie Holt, his brothers-in-law, Bob and Don Holt, and his sons-in-law, Bob Medway and Jim Nixon. He leaves to cherish his memory, his children: Patricia Lester, Georgina (James) Jarvis, Colleen (Wayne) Bara, Barbara Medway, David Lester (Bonnie Osborn), Kathleen (Don) Buie and two sisters-in-law, Arlene and Irene Lester. Albert also leaves thirteen grandchildren and seven great grandchildren who adored him.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 27th at 2:00 p.m. at the Rolling Hills Community Centre. Rev. Debbie Daniels officiating. Interment to follow at Rolling Hills Cemetery. In memory of Albert, the family wishes that memorial tributes be donated directly to the Rolling Hills Community Centre, Box 54, Rolling Hills, Alberta T0J 2S0.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM
BROOKS, ALBERTA
Condolences may be forwarded through www.sfh.ca
Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free 866-362-4652
“Our Families Serving Your Family Since 1951”
