Robert Lee Lester

Robert Lee Lester, a deeply patriotic, selflessly devoted, and larger-than-life presence, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on October 7, 1946, in Charleston, West Virginia, to the late Dennie and Virginia Lester, Bob was truly a man where "to know him was to love him." Bob dedicated his early life to service, honorably serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as a Drill Sergeant. Following his military service, he established a successful career in home remodeling, specializing in kitchens and bathrooms. He was known as a true "jack of all trades" who could build or rebuild just about anything-though he humorously never mastered the phone call or basic technology. Above all, Bob's compassion and selflessness defined him. He recently celebrated his 19th Anniversary of sobriety on November 10, 2025, an achievement he was immensely proud of. For nearly two decades, he dedicated his Saturday mornings to cooking breakfast for 100+ people for his AA home group, Short and Sweet, at St. Jerome's basement, meticulously shopping all week for the best deals on bacon, potatoes, and eggs. Bob was a man who knew how to enjoy life, possessing a quick-witted, great (and often inappropriate) sense of humor. He loved cars, favoring anything flashy that would turn heads, including a Chevy SSR convertible, a Chrysler Crossfire, and a Cadillac CTS. He cherished listening to live music, and during sunny days, he loved sitting outside with friends. He also enjoyed riding horses with his late companion, Cynthia Ross (who passed in 2010), especially their horse, Buddy Angel. Bob was also an excellent cook, renowned for his homemade macaroni and potato salad. He will be remembered by his dog, Ruckus, who provided him great companionship until the very end, and whose care will be taken over by his dear friend, Natalie Jo Flynn. Bob leaves behind his devoted daughter, Kristin (Bill) Barth, and his former wife, Susan Doyle. He was a cherished grandfather to Ella Barth, Maya Barth, Grace Barth, Sam Cardillo (Abby) and Zak Cardillo. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Evelyn Cardillo. Bob is also survived by his dear sister, Meda Norris, nephews and nieces, Jimmy Perry, Dennie Perry, Edy Norris, Jonathan Norris. Nicky Lester, Boyd Lester, Rose Lester-Massey, Tina Olivo, Frankie Jerrells, Lori Lesko (Brian), and Tracy Hjerpi (Jason). Great- nephews and great nieces, Patrick (Arnold), Geoffrey, Andy, Tyler, Hailey, Austin, David, Lauren, Paul, Zakary, Summer and former sister-in-law Ellen Gurin (Tim). Bob was preceded in death by his daughter Lisa Cardillo, brother Nick Lester, sister Edith Dobrzanski, sister-in-law Janet Tomishin and his parents. A Celebration of Bob's Life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at The Rustic Grill at Stonewater, 1 Club Drive, Highland Heights, Ohio 44143. Live music will be provided by Poppin Lenses, a special nod to Bob's love of concerts. In lieu of flowers, any contributions can be made in his name to: Alcoholics Anonymous.org or Hospice of Western Reserve, David Simpson Hospice House, 300 East 185th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44119.

Robert Lee Lester

October 7, 1946 - November 20, 2025

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