John ""Jack Crawford Kester

No services are planned.

He is survived by his wife, Madalyn; one son, John Jr. of Grand Junction; two daughters, Karen Engler of Highlands Ranch and Patty Kester of Grand Junction; one brother, Bob Walker of Grand Junction; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions to HopeWest, 3090B N. 12th St., Grand Junction 81506.

John ""Jack"" Kester

November 6, 1933 - May 7, 2015

Jack was born in Palisade to the union of John and Melba Kester. His father had died prior to his birth. He lived on his grandfather's peach orchard until Melba married Bob Walker when Jack was four. At the age of 14 he met the love of his life, Madalyn Smith, they married six years later.

The family eventually settled in Fruita. Upon graduating from Mesa Jr. College with a degree in geology, he worked for a uranium exploration company and discovered a multi-million dollar mine. He entered the Navy and after his discharge he went to work for American Gilsonite Company where he stayed for several years. He then worked at Mesa College as the purchasing director for 22 years until his retirement in 1989.

Jack loved the outdoors. The Colorado river was one of his favorite spots he founded the Colorado Canyon Cruises. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Once Lake Powell was established he, family, and friends spent many vacation days on the lake. Jack and Madalyn explored the country in their camper always chasing warmer weather and good times. But his biggest joy in life was being with his family. Jack could be found cheering on his grandkids at every sporting event, chanting his famous saying ""Way to go!"".

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Madalyn Kester; children, Karen (Mike) Engler, Highlands Ranch, CO; Patty Kester and John (Suzie) Kester of Grand Junction; four grandsons, Michael Engler, JC Kester, Dillon Marshall and Tommy Kester, and four granddaughters, Laura Engler, Daphne Kester, Savannah Marshall and Tessa Kester; two great-grandsons, and brother, Bob (Sharon) Walker.

At Jack's request no services are planned.

Memorial contributions can be made to HopeWest, 3090B N. 12th St. Grand Junction, 81506.

Published in The Daily Sentinel on May 12, 2015