Gerald L. Hester, Ed.D. (Age 82) entered into rest January 11, 2011 in Spokane, WA. He was born August 6, 1928 in Seattle and resided most of his life in Washington. He served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict, and was stationed in Germany.
Dr. Hester devoted 42 years to children in the field of education in Washington State. He began his teaching career in Bellevue, WA where he spent 14 years as a teacher, counselor and administrator. He then spent 28 years as Superintendent of school districts in Vashon, Auburn, Vancouver and finally Spokane, where he retired from that post in 1993.
During his career he received numerous honors and awards including Washington State Alumni Cougar Spirit Award (1989), National Educational Administrator of the Year (1989), and was a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year (1991). Dr. Hester was especially pleased with the relationships he fostered between the Spokane business community and the schools, as well as his work in the formation of the “Homeless School” in partnership with the YWCA.
Dr. Hester’s community leadership and involvement extended far beyond education. At various times he served on the Boards of a variety of organizations including Boy Scouts of America – Spokane Council, Y.M.C.A. of Spokane, People to People (International), Holy Family Hospital, and Spokane Chamber of Commerce.
He will be remembered as a man who worked hard and played hard. His many talents and enjoyments included piano, golf, travel and his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, grandson, brother and uncle. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol Hester of Spokane; son, Mark Hester and wife Packy of Spokane; daughter, Sue Stolk and husband Ferd of Milwaukie, OR; grandsons, Ryan Stolk and Blake Stolk; sister, Joan Benson and husband LeRoy of Whidbey Island, WA; and several nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, January 15, 2011 at Hamblen Park Presbyterian Church, 4102 S. Crestline St. in Spokane.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Dr. Gerald Hester Scholarship Fund, c/o Spokane Public Schools, 200 N. Bernard, Spokane, WA 99201.
Arrangements entrusted to Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home, 1306 N. Monroe St. in Spokane.
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