Lester Pedersen

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at the age of 94. Lester was born in Fargo, North Dakota on December 3, 1922, the son of the late Senius and Marie (Andersen) Pedersen. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. during World War II. He was united in marriage to Arlene (Anstett) Pedersen on September 19, 1945. He retired as a Sales Representative for New Holland Farm Machinery after 25 years of service. Following retirement, he and Arlene moved to Vicksburg, where they enjoyed farm life and his love for horses. Later he enjoyed being groundskeeper for West Portage Little League for many years. He was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church. He belonged to the V.F.W. Post #1527, American Legion Post #0036 and Eagles Club #3531. He enjoyed bowling, hunting and fishing, but most of all was an avid fan of his children's and grandchildren's sporting events. He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Arlene Pedersen; three sons, Kevin (Joelene) Pedersen of Scotts, MI, Lance Pedersen of Portage, MI and Keith (Nancy) Pedersen of Three Rivers, MI; five grandchildren, Matthew (Amber) Pedersen, Lauren (Matthew) Kulbago, Kristin (Christopher) Osborn, Brandon Pedersen and Ryan Pedersen; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Paul and sister, Bernice. Friends may visit with the family from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18th at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 East Centre Avenue, Portage, MI 49002. The funeral Mass will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 19th at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 1150 W. Centre Avenue, Portage, MI 49024, where friends may visit with the family from 10 a.m. until time of the service. Private interment will take place in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church. Please visit Lester's personalized web page at www.langelands.com to sign the online guest book or leave condolences to the family.