Lester William Schmoker

Lester William Schmoker, 73 of Kellogg died on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at his home, with his family by his side. Les was born on March 9, 1951 to Bonnie Clifford and Lester Schmoker. He graduated from Winona Senior High School in 1970. He married Earlene Eggers on September 5, 1970. They lived in rural Kellogg, MN on the Schmoker homestead. He was employed by Ind. School District 861 on the maintenance staff until retiring in 2000 due to a diagnosis of myasthenia gravis.
Once out of the work harness, he stipulated that it be written into his retirement contract of a nap to be promptly taken at 1 p.m. We marveled at how many pre-naps could be taken but he somehow shoehorned them in between his relentless surfing of the western channels starring John Wayne, Gene Autry and Roy Rogers.
A major point of pride was his family and during the times of confinement due to his many illnesses nothing could bring a smile quicker to his face than hearing the kitchen door opening and the voices of his family. When asked what his greatest achievement was, he readily replied, “The one thing that fills me with pride is the ability to witness the accomplishments of my family.”
His hands hammered, held babies and grandbabies, gardened, constructed for family and friends. His hands have lovingly held his main squeeze for better than half a century. He has completed his work, made his mark and now Jesus has taken his hands and welcomed him into His presence.
Les is survived by his wife of 54 years, Earlene; sons, Jon (Laura) Schmoker and Matt (Jodie) Schmoker; grandchildren, Byron (Paige), Collin (Jorden), Olivia (Caleb), Maddie, Abby, and Julia (Nathan).
He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John Schmoker.
Visitation will be on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview, MN from 4pm to 7pm.
Funeral Service will take place on Friday, November 15, 2024 at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview, MN at 11am with a 1-hour visitation prior to the start of the service.
Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Minneiska, MN.
To read the full obituary please visit www.hofffuneral.com
Hoff Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family with arrangements.