Lester D. "Les" Smith

Lester Denton “Les” Smith, Jr., 96, of Galesburg, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family Saturday, December 26, 2020 at 6:40 a.m. Les was born July 19, 1924 in Galesburg, the son of Lester and Anna S. (Werteen) Smith, Sr.  He graduated from GHS and attended Brown’s Business College in Galesburg.  Les enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, serving during WWII.  After WWII, Les attended Laney College in Oakland, CA on the GI Bill he met Vilma Louise Adams.  They were married on September 21, 1947 in Reno, NV.  After marriage, they continued to live in Oakland for several years before moving to Galesburg.  Les is survived by his wife of 73 years, Vilma of Galesburg; three daughters, Kim (Harold) Wynkoop of Galesburg, Tammy (Sam) TerBeek of Knoxville, Leslee (Gene) Charness of Highland Park; one brother, Lawrence (late Marcia) Smith of Ft. Collins, CO; and a son-in-law, Jerry Brodine of Galesburg.  Les is also survived by his five beloved grandchildren, Damon Morrison, Nicole (Jamie Andrew) Stewart, Ginny (Jamie) Shepherd, Torry Harris, and Frank Charness; and his four great grandchildren, Paige Shepherd, Even Shepherd, Christian Krumlauf, and Dalton Morrison.  Along with his parents, Les was preceded in death by one daughter, Karyn Brodine; and one sister, Marion (Bob) White.  Les was a master carpenter and cabinet maker for Don Gullickson in Galesburg for many years.  After Don retired Les worked for Nystrom and Jordan.  He was a longtime member of Carpenter’s Local 237 and a proud USMC Veteran.  Les enjoyed spending time outdoors. His hobbies included golf, playing baseball, bowling, and spending time with his family.  He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and was on the wrestling team at GHS.  He enjoyed tinkering around the house and in his garage.  Les was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.  Of all the things Les enjoyed, he enjoyed being with his family the most. He was at his happiest when he was surrounded by them and their love. Private family services will be held.  For those wishing to watch the funeral virtually please login to https://www.facebook.com/WatsonThomasFH at 11 am Saturday, January 2, 2020.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Memorials may be made to Hospice Compassus.