GAYKEN, Lester W. (1928-2003)

GAYKEN, CLARK, LUNDGREN, BROWN, GILL, PETERSON

Posted By: Hancock Co Genealogical Society
Date: 9/24/2021 at 20:46:08

Lester Gayken 1928-2003

Lester W. Gayken of Britt, 75, died of natural causes, May 14, 2003. He passed on in comfort and in the company of his family.

Graveside memorial services were held on Saturday, May 17, 2003 at the St. Patrick's Cemetery in Britt. The Rev. Robert Dodge officiated. Military rites were provided by the Britt Ceremonial Unit. Services were under the direction of the Ewing Funeral Chapel of Britt.

Lester Gayken, the son of Frank and Anna Marie Gayken, was born in Britt on February 22, 1928. He attended Britt schools. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1944. It was during his second tour of duty, while stationed in Stockton, California, that he was united in marriage to Lois (Clark) Gayken. The couple had two sons, Robert and Jim and a daughter, Charlla. The family returned to Britt in 1952.

Lester was a carpenter and co-founder of Love & Gayken Construction (1958-1978). He left his mark in and around the community by putting up many structures that will remain standing for years to come. He retired from the business in 1983 and traveled around the country with his wife, visiting family members throughout the United States. He enjoyed visiting, playing cribbage and golf.

Survivors include his three children, Bob Gayken and his wife, Dorie of Roundtop, Texas, Charlla Lundgren of Britt and Jim Gayken and his wife, Dawn of Britt; three grandchildren, Erik, Beth, and Paul; two great-grandchildren, Austin and Caitlyn; one brother, Bud Gayken of Britt; and three sisters, Verna Brown of Britt, Blanche Gill of Britt and Blondie Peterson of Goodell.

He was preceded in death by his wife of over 50 years, Lois; an infant daughter; and his parents.

©The Garner Leader & Signal, 21 May 2003, page 6, column 1