Lester David Hallstrom

Lester David Hallstrom, 84, of Marco Island, Florida, formerly of Boothbay Harbor, Maine, and Arlington, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Born in Medford, Massachusetts, on May 29, 1940, he was the son of the late Helen and Walter Hallstrom.

Lester is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Anne (Daniels, Call) Hallstrom. He was the cherished brother of Judith (Hallstrom) Dorr and her husband Robert Dorr of Wells, Maine. Lester leaves behind a deep legacy of love and guidance as a father figure to daughters Tobi (Call) Nikias and her husband Peter Nikias of Derry, New Hampshire; Niki (Call) Sullivan of Medford, Massachusetts; and Wendi (Call) Zook and her husband John of Chesterfield, Virginia.

Lester was a proud uncle, or “Unkie,” to Kenneth Dorr and his wife Dawn of Dunstable, Massachusetts, and Lori (Dorr) Hayes of Dracut, Massachusetts.

He also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren, whom he adored and affectionately called him “Papa.” His grandchildren include Crystal (Dalrymple) Kendall and her husband Clayton of Lake Mary, Florida; William Dalrymple of Miami, Florida; Christina (Dalrymple) Wilcox and her husband Brandon of Waltham, Massachusetts; Teena (Nikias) Ebbs and her husband Nick of Hookset, New Hampshire; Justin Nikias of Goffstown, New Hampshire; Cameron Burke of Dracut, Massachusetts; Liam Burke of Beverly, Massachusetts; Braden Sullivan of Medford, Massachusetts; and John, Eliza, and Jacob Zook of Chesterfield, Virginia.

Lester was also a proud great-grandfather to Reagan, Clayton, Beau, Jace, and Lorelai Kendall of Lake Mary, Florida, and Maddison and Liam Burke of Boston, Massachusetts. He leaves behind his great-nephew Andrew Dorr and his fiancée Katie Paquette, as well as great-niece Kenady Dorr and great-nephew Benjamin Hayes.

Lester was grateful for lasting friendships, notably with his childhood and neighborhood friends, Harvey Dorr and David Foley. Harvey and his wife Diane currently reside in Bradford, Vermont. David Foley, currently resides in Marco Island, Florida. The late Pauline Dorr, known fondly as Grammie Dorr, was very dear to Lester, as was the late Carla Paaske, a family friend, who inspired him with her etiquette and writing skills. Lester would later use those same skills to create the annual holiday cards that everyone eagerly anticipated, sharing highlights of the year.

In his younger years, Lester was an avid traveler, exploring places like London, Australia, and Africa. He enjoyed capturing these experiences through photography and often created slide shows to share his adventures with others. He was also a loyal Red Sox fan and treasured being able to watch them play in person.

Lester’s love story with Deborah began when they reconnected as adults, having known each other as childhood neighbors. Their relationship blossomed into a loving partnership, and they embarked on many adventures together.

Lester was the proud owner and operator of LDH Realty, a business he built with passion. He took pride in his various properties throughout the years, enjoying the security and stability they provided.

Lester and Deborah discovered Marco Island in the early 1980s. Over the years, they would continue to visit, sharing their getaway with family and friends. Eventually, they purchased a property that would become their retirement home. He felt extremely blessed to be part of a community that felt more like family than friends. Lester took great joy in serving on the board, organizing events, posting flyers, and assisting with other condo-related matters.

In the years before retiring, Lester and Deborah pursued a dream by purchasing the Admiral’s Quarters Inn in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, where they became innkeepers. For 12 years, they built a thriving business, hosting many guests who enjoyed the ocean views and Lester’s quick wit, jokes, and riddles. The Inn became a beloved destination for family, friends, and travelers.

Lester’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and kindness. He appreciated the people in his life and the simple pleasures of daily life, from Skip Bo games with Deborah to warm friendships and unforgettable travels. His family and friends will forever remember him for his generosity, humor, and the countless ways he touched their lives.

As we say goodbye, we will hold him in our hearts until we can hold him in our arms once again.

In honor of Lester’s life, we invite you to share your memories or thoughts about him by emailing [email protected] .