Lester J. Smith, age 87, formerly of Fulton, IL, died peacefully, surrounded by family on Friday, July 4, 2025, at Alverno Nursing Home in Clinton, IA.
Lester was born October 14, 1937, in Morrison, IL, the son of Lloyd and Winnifred (Balk) Smith. He attended various country schools and graduated from Morrison High School in 1955. He was employed at Fulton Corp. for 9.5 years, Patent Novelty for ten years, and GE in Morrison for 33.5 years. Lester married Barbara Brackemeyer in 1957 and later married Lila Dunning on September 14, 2018. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, spending time with his family and friends. He loved listening to the music of Johnny Cash, Eddie Arnold, Charlie Pride, and Dolly Parton.
He is survived by his wife, Lila Smith; daughters, Kathy (Carl) Borkgren and Rhonda (Randy) Willis; sister, Alberta (John) Dykhuizen; brothers, Harold (Helen) Smith and William Smith; two step-children, William Joseph Dunning and Teresa Edwards; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; one great-stepgrandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents and step-son, Robert Joseph Dunning.
A private Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the American Heart Association.
Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.