Lester Markum

Lester Lee Markum was born on April 15, 1944. He grew up in Marlin, Texas and attended Marlin schools. He immediately entered the military, enlisting first in the Air Force. After completion of his time in the Air Force, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he found his calling. It is obvious to anyone who knew him for more than a few minutes that he was a Marine, as the Corps was embedded in his DNA. He was married to the love of his life, Charlotte Markum, and had four sons, Jimmy, Michael, Jerry (who tragically succumbed to pneumonia during his first year of life) and Jack Markum. Lester later drove for Central Freight Lines for nearly twenty years. He was also an amateur radio operator since 1979, holding the callsign N5BQT. He thoroughly enjoyed this hobby and was always there to help others troubleshoot their equipment, improve their station which also included erecting and dismantling towers and antennas for others. He spent quite a bit of time in the air helping other ham operators who were unable to climb towers. All he ever requested was a steady supply of coffee to drink before and after the climb. He was very proud of having as many as ten amateur radio operators at one time in the family.

Even to the very end, Lester's mind was always sharp as a tack. He maintained his Marine mindset and made his own decisions. He is survived by his sons Jimmy and wife Julie, Michael and wife Jacqueline, and Jack and wife Mitzi, as well as 8 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Lester passed away on February 2, 2024 and was preceded in death by his loving wife Charlotte and son Jerry.