Lester Charles Oelze, Sr

Lester Charles Oelze, Sr., of Maryland Heights, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at the age of 97.  Loving husband of the late Murleen N. Oelze; beloved son of the late Chris and Ida Oelze; devoted father of  Beverly A. (Ralph) Horneker, Charlene Pieper, Lester (Patty) Oelze, Jr., Jeffrey D. (Claire Boedeker) Oelze, and Donna Kay (Ken Gassel) Oelze; step-father of  Jerry (Nora) Outlaw and the late James Outlaw; cherished grandfather of Theodore (Sharon) Horneker, Timothy (Melody) Horneker, Michelle (Tom) Marlow, Daniel (Sherry) Pieper, Joseph Pieper, Scott Oelze, Michael Oelze, Sarah (Jonathan) Spears, Melinda (the late Noah) Rappe, Blake (Chelsae) Oelze, Jordan Oelze, Tyler Oelze, Carrie (Shannon) Lanier, and Tracy Outlaw; dear brother of Melvin Oelze.  Lester was also preceded in death by his brother, Chris Oelze, Jr.; sisters, Margaret Oelze and Hermania Oelze; and grandson, Kenneth Pieper.

Lester proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during World War II, and he received 5 Bronze Stars, as well as a Good Conduct Medal for his service in the war.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #312.  After the service, he went to work in the railroad industry, and he retired as a foreman after more than 36 years.

Lester loved golfing and even had mastered a 'hole in one.'  He enjoyed striking out the pins with the members of the church bowling team.  He looked forward to spending time outdoors and playing on the church softball league at Bridgeton Bible Church.  He and his wife liked to travel to Branson and around the United States visiting many landmarks.  Lester also enjoyed watching his grandkids sporting and theater events.  He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Lester's name to Grace Community Chapel.