Lester Joe Bartosh, 74, of Kewanee, IL and formerly of Toledo, passed away Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at OSF St. Luke's Medical Center in Kewanee, IL. Funeral Services will be held Monday, November 27, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home in Tama. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Toledo. Visitation will be held prior to the service Monday, November 27, 2023 from 10-11 AM at the funeral home.

Lester was born on January 8, 1949, in Marshalltown, Iowa, the son of Charles E. and Esther B. (Hardon) Bartosh.

He attended Toledo Public School and graduated from South Tama County School in 1968. Lester played football and wrestled in Jr. High, winning state championship in his weight. He was a member of 4H and F.F.A. Lester loved life on the farm with his parents, where he raised sheep and did countless chores. He enjoyed fishing, tying his own flies, insect collecting, stamp collecting, and coin collecting. Lester was a major Elvis Presley fan. His greatest joy was being with his nieces and nephews. Lester moved to a new home in Toledo, Iowa with his father, Charlie, after the death of his mother. He then moved to Royal Oaks Center in Kewanee, IL due to ill health.

Survivors include his brother, Wayne (Faye) Bartosh of Davenport; sister, Sharon Andre of Kewanee, IL; two nephews; two nieces; and four grand nieces.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his grandparents; niece, Mary Bartosh; and many aunts and uncles.

A memorial fund will be established.