Lester J. Cherry, 84, of Independence, IA, died Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at his home in Independence.

Lester was born on March 22, 1932 in Winthrop, Iowa the son of Ross S. and Myrtle A. (VanTasell) Cherry. He was a 1949 graduate of Independence High School. In 1951 he enlisted the United States Marine Corp and served proudly during the Korean War. On April 10, 1953, Lester married Patricia A. Ghere in Yuma, AZ. The pair later made their home on a farm, just outside of Quasqueton, IA, where he worked that same land diligently for 59 years, before moving to Independence. Lester believed in being active in his community and served as volunteer firefighter for 38 years on the Quasqueton Fire Department and the East Buchanan School Board for 9 years. He was a member of the Farm Bureau, Bechter-Boies V.F.W. Post 2440, Quasqueton American Legion Post 434, and was an active member of the Quasqueton Union Church.

He enjoyed traveling with his wife throughout North America, but he loved spending time with his family the most.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia, Independence, four children, Linda (James) Bell, Independence, Lonnie (Tammy) Cherry, Winthrop, Lorie (Kenny) Gericke, Quasqueton, and Lee (Michelle) Cherry, Walker, twelve grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, a sister, Evelyn Kinsinger, Clive, IA, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers; Fredric, Royal, and Alvin Cherry, and a sister, Esther Thomas.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Friday at the Union Church, Quasqueton, IA, with burial in the Quasqueton Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM Thursday at the Reiff Funeral Home & Crematory, Independence, IA, and from 8 AM till services Friday at the church in Quasqueton, IA.

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