Obituaries

LESTER, DR. FRANK NELSON entered into rest peacefully at the Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay on Thursday, January 2, 2025 in his 96th year. Nelson Lester was the beloved son of the late Frank Lester and Louisa Weakley. Dear husband of the late Betty Harriet Barber (2023). Cherished father of John Lester and the late Sharon (1967). Predeceased by brother Bruce and his wife Betty Lester of Cobourg. Much loved uncle of David (Nancy) Lester of Cobourg, Douglas (Brenda) Lester of Stratford, Garry (Audrey) Quibell of Cameron, Sue (Eric) Allen of Fenelon Falls, Richard Barber of Saint John, NB, the late Donna Lee Brumwell and their families. Special friend of cousin Joyce (Radey) Ogden, and his self-appointed sister Carol Fisher.

Nelson Lester graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1955. He immediately went into practice with Dr. A.F. Codlin of Lindsay as “Codlin & Lester”, later known as Lindsay Animal Clinic, where he served his community both day and night with extreme devotion for the next fifty years. His personal passions were family, music, and horses. He enjoyed many years playing the drums and fiddle, and competing in the show ring with his beloved Hackney and Shetland Show Ponies. His personal association with the annual Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto began in 1968 when he was appointed as Official Horse Show Veterinarian – a position he would hold for 25 years. Following retirement he was honoured as an “Honourary Governor” of the Royal Horse Show, a distinction he wore proudly. In retirement he wrote and published two books – “My First 90 Years” and “More To Remember”. Dr. Lester was also a Past President of the Ontario Belgian Horse Association, the Lindsay Central Exhibition, and the Fenelon Agricultural Society.

The family would like to thank Dr. Steven Hainer for his compassionate care, the doctors and staff at the Ross Memorial Hospital, as well as Erin, Margaret, and all the staff at Caressant Care Retirement Home (Mary Street) in Lindsay where he and Betty chose to make their final home.

Arrangements entrusted to the Mackey Funeral Home in Lindsay. Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held at Riverside Cemetery, Lindsay on Saturday, May 31st at 11:45am. A Celebration of Life will follow at Celebrations, 35 Lindsay Street North from 1:00pm - 4:30pm with words of remembrance at 2:00pm, followed by music and fellowship. If desired, memorial donations to the Fenelon Agricultural Society would be appreciated by the family and may be made by cheque through the Mackey Funeral Home or by etransfer to: .