Lester Hill Wall

Lester Hill Wall, devoted husband of Blanche Mary Wall and loving father of Gerald, Howard, Patty, Susan and Linda Wall, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on May 6, 2026. 

His life began in Amarillo Texas, and his family of three brothers and one sister were raised by parents Lonnie and Mertie during the depression years in the dust bowl. The family built a home using adobe clay and hay bricks from the land his father bought in Clovis, New Mexico. His childhood was one of meager existence with food from their garden, a few chickens, interior dirt floors, and 2 beds in a one room house. 

During WW2, he left high school at 16 years to sneak on the Navy recruiting bus with his older brothers. He was sent home because of his young age but joined the following year with signed permission from his mother. That was the first time he ever slept in his very own bed. His navy "Sea Bees" mechanic and carpentry career took him to the Bikini islands where he witnessed 2 nuclear testing blasts. 

Once home, moved to his grandparents home in California to attend college. He married his college sweetheart on April 8, 1950, and they began their blessed Christian journey which carried them over 76 years of joy and sadness, sickness and health. Four children are honored to call him Dad; Gerald, Howard, Patty, and Linda. His banking career started with a teller position and was elevated through the ranks. He pushed himself to achieve graduation from the American institute of banking in New York and became the only banker in southern California to earn this prestigious banking certificate, allowing him to be the bank's Vice President. 

He also enjoyed teaching at the community college; courses in accounting, banking, bookkeeping and commercial law. His life of service was driven by a strong Christian faith that prevailed in service to the church (Elder), leading his family, and helping anyone and everyone he could find an opportunity to do so. Often, he'd provide a helping hand or monetary gift without the awareness of others, a humble and meek servant of God. 

He served community needs by membership in Lions club, Toastmasters, Scoutmaster, and Chamber of commerce, Rotary club, Better Business Bureau, Future Farmers of America, and as Chairman of the Hospital. He and Blanche retired to Washington state to serve as campground hosts for 12 years, earning a presidential certificate of gratitude for volunteer work.

 He loved Blanche dearly and their precious connection to each other was central to every decision he carried out.  Les listened to the desires of her heart and provided any worldly treasure she desired. His concern and sacrifices for his children remain a shining guide for loving parenting. Posterity includes 11 Grandchildren, 24 Great Grandchildren, and 4 Great-Great Grandchildren, for whom Les said, "We are so lucky to have such a wonderful family".

His favorite leisure activities were helping with church functions, singing praises in the church choir, fishing, wood working, carving, building, camping, traveling, and most of all family get-togethers.

 He never laughed harder than when teasing with his brothers and playing with his grandchildren. Les loved gardening too, always sharing loads of produce with food banks and neighbors. He was always so grateful for every little blessing, any gift or visit and always made sure you knew how special you were to him. 

This man of action and few words had every dream realized of a great career, respect of community and church, and growth of a loving and very special family. Lester longed for global peace. Once he solicited the help of a local elementary school to write letters to the President asking for a National Day of Peace to be added to the calendar.

 Whenever asked 'what is important to you" He'd say "God, Family and Country". All his family agrees "You are the greatest man we've ever known".

The hymns that moved his spirit were "How Great Thou Art" and "Let there be Peace on Earth".  No doubt, he is singing in the Angels choir forevermore. 

Dad, we love you and appreciate the life you shared with us. Rest now, enjoy your heavenly reward.