Lester Harold Townsend

Lester Harold Townsend, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend departed peacefully from this world on April 1, 2024 at his home in Florida, surrounded by his adoring family. He was 75 years old.

A long-time resident of Litchfield/Hudson, NH, Lester leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. He is survived by his daughter Kimberly and her husband Steven Lipsky of Hudson, NH as well as his daughter Darlene Townsend and her partner Gary Michalewicz of Land O’Lakes, FL. Lester’s daughters were the light of his life, and he was immensely proud of them.

Born on December 12, 1948, in Farmington, ME, Lester was the beloved son of Harold and Jane Townsend of Farmington, ME. He bravely served his country, enlisting in the Air Force in 1967 and serving valiantly during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Lester worked in construction and drove eighteen-wheelers for over thirty years. He found joy in traversing the country, relishing the beauty of the open road.

Lester had an unwavering passion for fishing, a love he shared with anyone willing to listen. He co-founded the non-profit organization Fishin For Kids with his childhood best friend Bruce Ottman, exemplifying his commitment to giving back to his community. His family and friends will fondly remember Lester’s remarkable sense of humor and ability to crack a joke in any situation.

Left to cherish his memory are his two daughters, his sister Pam Slade of New Bern, NC, his sister Penny and her husband Christopher Bell of Goffstown, NH, his grandchildren Jason Townsend, Jeffery Lipsky and wife Madison, Tyler Townsend and wife Alessandra, Katie and husband Cody Ottman, Kellie Lipsky and fiancé Travis Durand, as well as four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Lester is predeceased by his mother Jane Townsend, sister Darlene Townsend, brother Larry Townsend and father Harold Townsend Jr.

A full military honors ceremony will be held at the NH Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH, on a later date, honoring Lester’s service to his country. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the VVA Vietnam Veterans of America at http://vva.org.