Ruth E. Lester, age 87 of Lincoln, passed away August 10, 2012 after a courageous fight against a long term illness, with family by her side. She was born August 24, 1924 in Sioux City, Iowa to Kenneth P. and LaVern (Kloester) Cotton. Ruth graduated from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. After college she worked as a medical technologist. In 1948, Ruth married Donald E. Lester and eventually moved to Seward, Nebraska where they raised their 4 children and ran the Ford dealership. In 1970, Donald and Ruth moved to Lincoln. Ruth continued to live in Lincoln after Donald’s death in 1976. She lived with her son and daughter-in-law for the last 10 years of her life. Ruth’s interests included music, dancing and swimming. Her passion was her family and friends.
Survivors include her children and spouses, Jana and Dr. Rob Riggert of Lafayette, Colorado, Michael and Sue Lester of Lincoln, Patrick and Ruth Lester of Lincoln and William and Cindy Lester of Lincoln. 11 Grandchildren and 9 Great grandchildren. Sister and Brother-in-law: Jana and Robert Cowan of Clive, Iowa. Nieces and Nephews. The family wants to extend thanks to Ruth’s special caregivers; Cherie, Elva and Trish. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband: Donald E. Lester, her parents, Brother: Richard Cotton and Sister: Dorothy Taplett.
Visitation with the family will be held on Tuesday, August 14, 2012 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. in Wyuka Funeral Home
A private family service will be held at a later date.
Memorials are to the Great Plains Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association or the Capital Humane Society.
Lester Family,
Just got news of Aunt Ruth’s passing.
Please accept my deepest sympathies at this time.
I know that each of you have fond memories that you will cherish and pass along for generations to come. I do remember our family gathering; even though they were few, but always fun. I appreciated your love & support during Howard’s passing (1993) and Dort’s (2007).
Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers this coming week, as I begin my 33rd year of school.
I will be sending a donation to them Capital Humane Society in Ruth’s name.
God Bless,
Mike & Sue Taplett
Huron, SD
Lester Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Aunt Ruth fought a courageous battle with all of you by her side. She had many wonderful qualities but one that stands out for me was her infectious giggle that always made me smile. I have many fond memories of our family gatherings and wish I could be with you in person. Know that my thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with you in spirit.
Love,
Cyndi
Jan , Mike, Pat, Bill and families, I am saddened to learn of the passing of Ruth. I have many fond memories of time on Cherry LANE. When I drive by there I often think of those times. God be with you at this time of great loss.
Bill, Cindy and family,
So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She has left a great legacy, I’m sure you’re all very proud of her life.
With deepest sympathies,
Mark and Lois Ferris
Toledo, Ohio
To the Lester family. Sorry to hear of your mothers passing, I have many memories of her when you lived in seward many years ago, she was a sweet person.
Dear Pat, Bill, Mike, and Jana,
I just wanted to let you know how sorry I was to hear about your Mom. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. May God Bless.
Mark