KANSAS CITY, MO- Robert E. Lester, 88, of Kansas City, MO passed away Monday, May 21, 2012 at North Care Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. He was born February 3, 1924 in St. Marys, KS the son of Charles and Ethel (Wyker) Lester.

Robert had lived in the Kansas City area most of his life and had previously lived in the Topeka and Soldier areas. Robert served in the United States Army in the Philippines during WWII. After his service to his country he was a general laborer working on highway construction; he also worked at Goodyear Tire Company in Fairfax, KS.

Robert married Ella M. Simmons on April 15, 1950 in Holton, KS. She survives of the home. He is also survived by his 4 children, Dennis Lester (Nancy) of Kansas City, MO, Lois Roe (Roger) of Oceanside, CA, Judy Bashlor (Tom) of Gladstone, MO and Ron Lester of Independence, MO; 2 sisters, Fern Conklin of Denver, CO and Arlene Edwards of Mariposa, CA; 3 brothers, Leo Lester, Laird Lester and Elden Lester all of Topeka, KS; 5 grandchildren, Jeff Bashlor, Celia Chalfant, James Roe, Kim Bashlor and Bryan Bashlor and a great grandson.

He was preceded in death by 4 brothers, Kenneth, Harold, Albert and Bill Lester.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 25, 2012 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will be at the Olive Hill Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.