Lester G. Harrell

Lester G. Harrell, age 83, of Appleton, passed away on Thursday, December 13, 2012. He was born on April 12, 1929, in Forsyth County, North Carolina, the son of the late Clarence and Effie (Sechrist) Harrell. Lester lived in Forsyth County until entering the U.S. Army at the age of 18. He served four years as a medic during the Korean War, and received the Combat Medical Badge, Korean Service Medal, and Bronze Star.

On July 8, 1950, Lester married Ethel Strebe from Menasha, at Fort Sheridan Catholic Chapel in Illinois. They lived in the Appleton area and raised eleven children. Lester was employed at American National Can and retired in 1994. He also enjoyed assisting at Larry's Ambulance and Lindy's Ambulance over the years. He enjoyed traveling with Ethel to Florida, surrounding himself with his dogs, family, and friends.

Lester is survived by his children: Cathy (Ron) Gitter; Pam (Rick) Riess; Dan (Nancy) Harrell; Wanda (Mike) Gruenke; Karen Carlson; Mike (Dawn) Harrell; Pat (Donna) Harrell; Jim (Connie) Harrell; Collette (Bob) Riemer; and Vicky (Jamie) Wellwood-Walker. He is further survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Ethel Harrell a son, John Harrell; grandson, Mark Carlson; brothers: TW, Clifford, and Leo; and sisters: Ruth and Virginia.

The funeral service for Lester will be held at 11:30 am on Monday, December 17, 2012 at Wichmann Tri-County Chapel. Fr. Bob Lexa will be officiating. Interment will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery in Appleton. The family will receive relatives and friends from 10:00 am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name. Online condolences can be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com.