Gerald "Jerry" Lester

Jerry was Edward Lester and Marie Eleanore Wendell’s favorite (and only) son. Marjorie Borchik (Dave) was his wise older sister, and Barbara Lester was his partner in pranks. Early life was in Cleveland, Ohio.

Jerry graduated from Buckeye High School in Medina, Ohio where he lettered in football and basketball. He attended Baldwin Wallace College in Berea, Ohio, and took a year as an exchange student in Mexico at Mexico City College (now the University of the Americas).

Jerry served in the Army for six years beginning in 1961, including service in Kassel, Germany during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Jerry returned to Olmsted Falls, Ohio after his active service. He met the love of his life, Mary Lou Starkweather, while both were working at the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad.

Jerry was a visionary and knew computers were the future. Jerry left the railroad in 1972 to work with the Federal Government. He wanted to work on the new 360 computer operated by the Government.

Jerry had a long and meaningful career spanning American Greetings, the railroad industry and more than two decades with the Federal Government. He enjoyed his work with Health and Human Services because he knew the computer systems he implemented had a direct and positive impact on families.

Jerry received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland. He went on to attain his master’s degree at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

Jerry’s two terrific daughters Susan Marie Mandola and Catherine Ann Junda were both born in Annapolis. Jerry has two great sons-in-law Joe Mandola and Doug Junda. Four wonderful granddaughters Courtney Arthur (Coty), Kelley Junda, Anne Marie Mandola and Kathleen Rose Mandola. Two “great” great grandkids Brycen and Josie.

Jerry enjoyed time with the extended family as well, spending many vacations with his sister Barbara and his sister Marge, Uncle Dave and their four sons, their wives and all their kids. There were many holidays and more vacations with the Starkweathers and the Walshes.

Jerry was a Broncos fan, an Avalanche fan, and an Avid Nuggets Fan!

Everyone enjoyed being with Jerry because he made you feel welcomed, valued, and loved. He was a kind man, listening thoughtfully and wanting the best for everyone. Jerry was the very best Dad and Grandpa!

Such a wonderful guy! Such a wonderful life! Jerry and Mary Lou were together for sixty-one years! (Really!) They liked each other. They loved each other. They loved their family. They had a long, adventurous, fun-filled life together!

Jerry was a REAL GOOD GUY! We love him and we will miss him forever!