Clyde Kester

Clyde Kester, 99, of Desloge, passed away April 4, 2024, at Mercy Jefferson Hospital in Festus.  He was born in Chilton, MO, June 1, 1924, to the late Leander “Ray” and Garnett Lizzie (Dorris) Kester.  Clyde grew up on Current River and loved going back there as an adult to fish and hunt with his brothers.  He was an auxiliary member of the Desloge Police and Fire Departments but worked for over 20 years for ACF Industries as a welder/burner.  In his spare time, Clyde tended yearly to his 1-acre garden that he was very proud of.  Clyde was known for his great sense of humor and was an avid St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Margaret Maxine (Lercher) Kester; siblings, Cuba Lewis, Gladys Kester, Lloyd “Red” Kester, Floyd “Blue” Kester, Boyd Kester, T.J. “Foot” Kester and Paul Kester.

Clyde, known by his family as “Chick,” is survived by children, Linda Salts and husband Lonnie, Janet Kester, Russell Kester and wife Debra; grandchildren, Richard (Carolyn) Edgar and Andrew (Keri) Kester; five great-grandchildren, Matthew, Christopher and Jonathon Edgar, Cameron and Ethan Kester; sisters in-law, Shirley and Cricket Kester; several nieces, nephews and other family members also survive. 

A St. Louis Cardinal themed visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Tuesday, April 9, 2024, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 1:00 PM.  The family asked you to wear your favorite Cardinal attire.   Interment will follow at Marvin Chapel Cemetery in Bonne Terre.