Growing up on the family farm. He joined the Fargo Air Guard and attended North Dakota Agricultural College (now NDSU). Entering into active duty with the Air Force in February of 1943. He continued serving in aircraft maintenance with the Air Force until April of 1970. Retiring after 27 + years , last serving as Crew Chief at the rank of Lt. Colonel. During his service he was stationed on many bases in the United States as well as abroad. Korea , Japan, Philippines, Thailand and Germany. His decorations and citations are numerous. To mention a few American Theater Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Service Medal, and WW11 Victory Medal. He was thrilled to participate in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.
On Sept. 5, 1958 he married Irene Young in Clovis New Mexico. She preceded him in death on February 16, 2015. His heart was broken with her loss and his health deteriorated. He became a resident of Arden Courts in Naples where he passed on January 8,2019 in the care of the wonderful staff and Avow Hospice.
He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings Violet Olson, Loren, Harlan, Orville Lemke. Survived by siblings Dennis (Marlene) Clare, MI and LaDonna Pederson, Moorhead, MN. Sisters- in-law Norma (Harlan) Moorhead, MN. Lydia (Orville) Colorado Springs, CO. Many nieces and nephews. Who will all miss his kind, loving presence.
He was a man of faith and member of Grace Lutheran Church, Naples Fl. Les and Irene were supporters of the Naples Humane Society, and requests any donations be made to NHS. Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM January 25, 2019 at Grace Lutheran Church 860 Banyan Blvd, Naples, FL 34102.
