Lester Foster

Lester Foster was born in Chicago, IL on March 27, 1958 to the late LeeAther and Bonnie Foster. Lester was the second born to this union.

“Peanut” as he was affectionately known since he was a child provided guidance, comfort and security to his brothers and sisters. At an early age Lester never shied away from a challenge. He always stood bright and this was shown especially after the passing of his father. His mother would always tell him to slow down and take care of himself. Lester was steadfast and continued to watch over and take care of his family. He made sure that his sibling’s needs and wants were met.

Lester graduated in 1976 from Von Stuben High School. He excelled in his studies and was a well-distinguished player on the varsity basketball team. After graduating high school, while growing into a man, Lester took pride in his education, as well as being a serious team player. He went on to attend Aurora University where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice in 1980. During his senior year at Aurora University, Lester received the Young, Gifted and Black Award with outstanding and dedicated service. During his college years, he continued on his path of basketball excellence and was named to the Four-Year Varsity Letterman Club. With his drive and desire to continue his education, he received his Master of Science in Business Management in 1984. Shortly after receiving his Master’s degree he became the first African-American Administrator for Aurora University. During his tenure at Aurora, he served as Head of Student Housing, Head of Campus Security, Minority Student Recruiter, Associate Dean of Students, Assistant Financial Aid Director and Assistant Coach to the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Team.

On April 16, 1986 Lester vowed his love and dedication to Brotherhood, Scholarship and Service by becoming initiated into the Iota Nu Sigma Graduate Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. Later that year he chartered the Pi Omicron Undergraduate Chapter on the campus of Aurora University. He also chartered the Iota Phi Sigma Graduate Chapter in 1987. He always made sure his brothers were well taken care of and showed true love and dedication to his fraternity.

Holding true to his foundation in 2006, Lester received the Academic Achievement Award to honor his commitment throughout the years at Aurora University from the Black Student Association. In 2012, the African-American Employees Committee of Cook County awarded Lester with the Community Treasures Award.

Lester held many positions with a host of companies. At the time of his departure, Lester held The Office of Vice-President of Business Development/Practice Leader at Sedgwick CMS, where his focus was on government and public entities.

Lester’s mannerisms allowed him to define structure within his family and drive in his career. With his proclamation of the Lord and Savior at an early age, Lester went on to become an active member at Progressive Community Center, The People’s Church under the leadership of Dr. B. Herbert Martin, Sr. He was an active member on the Deacon Board as well as Chairman of the Finance Committee.

Lester had many accomplishments in his life. His greatest accomplishment was fatherhood. He loved and nurtured his 3 children Monique, Marcus, and Marcelles. He was a great father who cared deeply for his children. Lester married the love of his life Veronica Maclin on December 24, 2001.Through this bond of love their son Marcelles Foster was born. Their life long love will always live on in Veronica’s heart. His favorite past times were watching Western’s and enjoying sports.

Lester made his transition to be with our Lord and Savior on July 17, 2013. He joins his parents, LeeAther and Bonnie, and two brothers; Charlie and Derrick, in heaven.

Lester‘s warm heart and giving spirit will be truly missed by all that knew him. He was truly the definition of a precious gem.

Lester leaves to cherish his beloved memory: his loving wife Veronica Foster; daughter, Monique Foster; sons, Marcus (Emily) and Marcelles Foster; sisters, Annette (the late Harry) Silas, Dorene (Anthony) Harris, and Pamela (LaVoya) Kerr; special brother, James (Lisa) Marcel; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great- nieces, great-nephews, god-children, other family and treasured friends.