Lester Jackson

After many years fighting a courageous battle with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease, Lester Jackson of Lake Odessa, went to his Heavenly Home on July 29, 2010 at the age of 72. Lester was born to Kenneth and Ivah (Bushnell) Jackson on September 15, 1937. He was raised on the Jackson farm where he and his father farmed together. He also worked at the Lake Odessa Post Office for 18 years. Lester attended country school and graduated from Lake Odessa High School in 1955. He then joined the National Guard and served 6 months active duty and 6 ½ years in the Reserves. On June 20, 1959, Lester was united in marriage to Lois Shumway of Jackson, MI. Together they had 3 sons; Daniel, Scott, and an infant who went to heaven in 1975. A special niece, Debra Paradowski lived with the Jackson's for a time. Lester farmed along with his sons until his disability no longer permitted it. He loved the farm where he lived for 51 years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and had instilled the same love for the outdoors in his sons and grandchildren. Lester is survived by his wife, Lois; sons, Daniel (Adair) and Scott (Mandy); special niece, Debra (Mark) Paradowski; 10 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and 3 sisters, Donna McCaul, Beverly Raffler, and Bonnie Dombrowski. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Joann Brodbeck; and his infant son. A private graveside service will be held. There will be a Celebration of Lester's life at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 2, 2010 at the Clarksville Bible Church. The family would like to give a very special thank you to their wonderful neighbors, Lou Boyer, Rich Peterman, and Steve Curtis. Without their help, Lester would not have been able to stay in his home. Also, thank you to Dr. Lee Stuart, and the ladies from ICMH Home Health Care, especially Shelley and Tammy. Memorial contributions may be made to the Clarksville Bible Church or Great Lakes Hospice. Funeral Service August 02, 2010 11:00 AM Clarksville Bible Church 191 S. Main Street Clarksville, MI (616) 693-2145 Interment