Lester J. “Les” VonHandorf, age 86 of Dubuque, formerly of Colesburg, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on Tuesday, January 8, 2019, 3 years to the day that his beautiful bride Nancy was also called home, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Lester’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Lester’s family.

Lester was born on September 17. 1932, in Greeley, Iowa, a son to Joe and Leona (Rolfes) VonHandorf.  After school he joined the U.S. Air Force and went on to honorably serve his country during the Korean War.  While still in the service on leave, Lester was united in marriage to the love of his life, Nancy Walters on May 11, 1954 at St. Mary’s Church in Guttenberg, Iowa.  They began their new family together while he was stationed in Alaska, where their daughter Jody was born.  They were blessed with 62 years together before Nancy was sadly called to her eternal home on January 8, 2016. 

Lester was a hard-working man who faithfully gave over 30 years of his working life to John Deere Dubuque Works.  He had moved through many departments over the years, but the final years spent testing engines were definitely some of his favorites out there.  He was also very skilled with his hands outside of Deere’s and not only worked the wrenches continually in his garage, but he also remodeled many houses over the years and even felt quite comfortable behind the wheel of a tow truck.  Lester made friends very easily and whether you were a co-worker, a neighbor or a fellow veteran at the American Legion; Lester always had time for a good conversation, a hearty laugh and even a funny jab or two at the guy standing next to him.

But, at the end of the day, Lester was also a committed family man.  He loved his wife, adored his daughter, spoiled his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and always treasured his cat Buff.  His devotion to those he cared for was continually on display through both his words and actions and his unwavering alliance and loyalty to his family and friends will forever be found in the countless memories he leaves behind.  We will miss you Lester and thank you for the wonderful example you so unselfishly shared with the world around you throughout your 86 years among us.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Lester include,

his daughter,

Jody VonHandorf, Colesburg, IA;

his grandchildren,

Jaimy Hansel, Colesburg, IA,

and Rob (Jenn) Hansel, Scottsdale, AZ;

his great-grandchildren,

Keegan, Kiernan and Gregory Hansel, Colesburg, IA,

and Logan and Ryan Hansel, Scottsdale, AZ;

his siblings,

Donald (Jean) VonHandorf, Colesburg, IA,

Marilyn (Roger) Schrunk, Lake Forrest, CA,

and Lou Ann Brown, Colesburg, IA;

his brother-in-law,

Joe (Sharon) Walters, New Vienna, IA;

and his numerous nieces and nephews.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Nancy; and his sister, Verna Mae (Jim) Diers.

Lester’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their wonderful care and support of Lester and his family.

Online condolences may be shared with Lester’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com