David B. Lester

David B. Lester passed away peacefully on August 7, 2022, at his Newton home after a long illness. His loving wife, Laura and family were by his side. 
David was born July 15, 1937, in Mt Vernon, NY. Son of Herman and Eva Lester of Southbury CT, David survived his only sibling, Dr Robert Lester of Florida.
David graduated from New Rochelle High School and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute earning a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and also becoming a ROTC Naval officer. He served two years in the Navy on board the aircraft carrier, USS Kearsarge. David never tired of telling stories of his Navy days and his adventures in the Philippines, Japan and the South China Sea.

During his working career David was awarded many patents. His love of invention and entrepreneurship inspired him to create his own manufacturing business, Polymerics, Inc.,
Waltham, MA. Using his chemical engineering skills he and Laura created Tulip Paints that became a popular staple arts and crafts product line.
In his retirement years David loved to play golf and became a founding member of the TPC Golf Club, Norton, MA. To his amazement he scored a hole-in-one, July 3, 1995. David was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Known by all to be a kind and generous man. Family gatherings were his favorite times and fondest memories. He became “Poppy” to his loving family.
In his later years David became passionate about helping to heal the Earth and he was very proud of the 100% solar powered home he and Laura built in Newton. He also loved his garden and watching the honey bees at work. He happily celebrated his 85th birthday outside in his favorite garden among flowers, family, bubbles and honey bees.
David is survived by his wife, Laura / daughters: Jennifer Lester Rubin (her husband, David and her daughter, Rebecca) / Melinda Johnson (her husband, Michael and their children, Matthew and Madison) / stepchildren: Wendy Hyde (and her children, Connor and Emma) / Gregory Hyde ( and his sons, Trevor and Tegan) / Daniel Hyde (and his wife, Jiao and his daughter, Isabella).
“We will never not be thinking of our 'Poppy' and all he has meant to us.”
A donation in David’s name can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

 

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