Ron Lester Death Grayslake IL Obituary: Lester’s Bison Farm Founder Remembered by Grayslake Farmers Market

GRAYSLAKE, ILLINOIS — The community is remembering Ron Lester, the founder of Lester’s Bison Farm and a longtime presence at the Grayslake Farmers Market, following news of his death.

Lester was remembered not simply as a farmer and business owner, but as a storyteller, veteran and familiar face whose connection with customers and fellow vendors extended far beyond the products he brought to market.

The Grayslake Farmers Market paid tribute to Lester, recalling him as one of its original vendors and reflecting on the many stories and memories he shared throughout his years there.

Ron Lester Remembered by Grayslake Farmers Market

For years, Lester’s presence at the Grayslake Farmers Market became part of the experience for customers who visited to purchase products from his farm.

His work with Lester’s Bison Farm connected him with families and customers throughout the region, while his personality and willingness to share stories helped make him a memorable figure within the local farming community.

The market’s tribute highlighted the lasting impression Lester made through the years and the memories he leaves behind.

From Military Service to Wisconsin Farming

Lester’s life included an extraordinary military career before he became known for his work in agriculture.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps before turning 17 and eventually served for 22 years.

His military service included assignments during both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, as well as work in military intelligence.

During his career, Lester received several military honors, including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

He left active military service in 1973, beginning another significant chapter of his life.

Founding Lester’s Bison Farm

After his military career, Lester developed a passion for raising bison.

He began raising bison in 1980, eventually establishing what became Lester’s Bison Farm in Salem, Wisconsin.

The farm grew into a family business and became known for its bison products. Lester later operated a country store alongside the farm, further developing the business and its connection to the surrounding community.

His transition from military service to farming reflected the determination and entrepreneurial spirit that characterized much of his life.

Family Life and Legacy

Lester’s family was another central part of his story.

He and his wife, Connie, married in 1958 and built a family that eventually included seven children, 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

For those closest to him, his legacy extends well beyond his professional accomplishments.

His family, military service, farm and relationships with customers and members of the community all form part of the story he leaves behind.

Cause of Death Not Publicly Confirmed

The circumstances surrounding Ron Lester’s death have not been publicly confirmed in the information available for this report.

No specific cause of death should therefore be assumed or reported as fact unless it is subsequently confirmed by his family, funeral home or another authoritative source.

Additional obituary, funeral or memorial information may be released by the family at a later time.

Remembering Ron Lester

Ron Lester leaves behind a legacy shaped by service, farming, family and community.

From his years in the Marine Corps to his work building Lester’s Bison Farm, his life encompassed experiences that connected him with people in very different parts of his community.

At the Grayslake Farmers Market, he was remembered as one of the market’s early vendors and as someone whose stories and presence became part of its history.

For his family, friends, customers and fellow farmers, his memory will continue through the farm he built, the people he influenced and the stories shared about his life.

Ron Lester Obituary Details

Disclaimer

This obituary article is based on publicly available information and community tributes concerning Ron Lester. Details regarding his death, cause of death, funeral arrangements, visitation and memorial services may be updated if additional information is released by his family or representatives. This article is intended for general informational and memorial purposes and should not be considered a substitute for an official obituary or family announcement.