Lester McFeters

Les McFeters, age 88, peacefully passed away on Sunday July 3rd at St. Joseph's Hospital, surrounded by family members and loved ones. Les will be greatly missed by all who knew him for his quick wit and outgoing personality. His kindness and genuine concern for his family and loved ones will always be remembered.
Les was born in Anoka, MN to Tyler and Helen McFeters, oldest of three boys. While attending Anoka High School Les bought the family's first car by running a newspaper route business with twelve boys working for him. After graduation and the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Les joined the army and spent most of his duty in Africa and India.
In 1943 while home on leave, Les married Arlys Beckenbach, his high school sweetheart. After the war, Les went to work as a computer operator and systems manager at Blue Cross; the young couple eventually settled in New Brighton, MN to raise their children. A car accident in 1969 altered his life forever and Les retired. In 1970 Les and Arlys bought Ox Lake Tavern and Crosslake became their home. Over the course of his 24 years behind the bar at Ox Lake, Les made many lifelong friends. His easy manner and willingness to lend a helping hand made him a great friend to all.
Les retired for a second time in 1991. He soon became active in the Crosslake-Ideal Lions Club as a charter member. He held many officer positions and received many awards for his contribution to the community. Les was also a Charter member of the Crosslake-Fifty Lakes American Legion Post 500, where he met his very special friend Sharon.
Les McFeters is survived by 5 children: Tom (Kasuko)-Indianapolis, IN; John Jay (Nancy)-Seattle, WA; Bob (Janet)-Coon Rapids MN; Lynn Smith (Tom)-Breezy Point, MN; and Tim-Ideal Corners MN, 7 grandchildren: Tom (DeAnn) McFeters; Aundra (Bob) Erickson-Breezy Point, MN; Rob (Stephanie)-Seattle, WA; Masayo (James) Beaman and Nina (Elfredo) Guetierrez-San Diego, CA; Cory McFeters-student U of M Duluth, 3 Great Grandchildren: Jane Marie, Braelyn, and Ainsley Erickson of Breezy Point, and a brother William McFeters of Washington state. Also survived by a loving friend Sharon Tabor and her family.
He was preceeded in death by his wife of 58 years Arlys, parents Tyler and Helen, and 1 brother John Jack.
The family would like to invite all friends, past and present, to join them in the celebration of Les' Life.
A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM, Sunday, July 10, 2011 at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Crosslake, MN. Family and friends are invited to gather one hour prior.