Lester H. Decker, 88, of West Point, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at his home with family by his side.
He was born at home on May 25, 1936, in West Point, the son to Henry and Rose Bentlage Decker. Lester married his first wife, Mary Alice McClaskey in 1957, in West Point, and although the union was not permanent, they maintained an amicable friendship. On Nov. 1, 1969, he married Marylee G. Bair Meier in Galesburg, Ill.. Their family resided in West Point for a short while before relocating to Elvaston, Ill., where he lived for over forty-five years before returning to his West Point roots.
Lester attended St. Mary’s Catholic High School. In 1955, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the U.S.S. Intrepid stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. After retiring from active duty in 1959, holding the rank of Machinist Mate Third Class, he transferred to the United States Naval Reserve where he served until retiring in 1967.
Having grown up on a midwestern farm, Lester developed a strong work ethic and a love for nature and all its bounties at a young age. While he enjoyed gardening, camping, fishing, bluegrass festivals, listening to country music, repairing lawn mowers, he mostly enjoyed spending time with family and friends and telling stories of days gone by. Lester spent time as an OTR truck driver before becoming an independent construction contractor which he did for many years before retiring. He was a member of the American Legion.
Lester is survived by his children: Bruce (Gail) Meier of Indianapolis, Indiana, Norman (Linda) Decker of Edgewood, Texas, Noel Meier of Kahoka, Missouri, Cynthia (Tom) Hast of Champaign, Illinois, Christine Wildrick of Bradenton, Florida, Judith Camp of Elvaston, Illinois, Dustin Decker of West Point, Iowa and Patti (Dean) Jinkens of Port Clinton, Ohio; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-eight great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews, and his many friends and acquaintances.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wives; brothers: Donald Decker, Leroy Decker and Myron Decker; sister: Caroline Decker; son-in-law: Doug Camp; grandson: Justin Meier and nephew: John Decker.
His body has been entrusted to the crematory of Schmitz Funeral Home for cremation.
Per his wishes, no services will be held.
Schmitz Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements.