Robert E. Kester

Robert E. Kester, 77, of Middleport, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sept. 5, 2020 to be with his wife, Gail, to celebrate their 44th anniversary. He was born Feb. 23, 1943 in Buffalo, a son of the late Robert and Loretta Kester.

Robert had been a member of Middleport United Methodist Church since he moved to Middleport in 1977. Robert joined the Middleport Fire Department on July 10, 1978. He served as the fire department’s chaplain and fire police.

Robert was predeceased by his wife, Gail Kester, in May 2020.

He is survived by his children, Jennifer (Michael) Braun of Sarasota, Fla., R. Sean (Paula) Kester of Sarasota, and Robin (Tom) Greg of Doylestown, Pa.; stepchildren, Charlene (Kenny) Heschke of Gasport and Yvonne (Christopher) Lane of Lockport; grandchildren, Jacqueline Braun, Corey (Alicia) Martin, Adam Braun, Andrea (Tina) Braun, Julia Braun, Olivia Kester, Solenne Greg, Seth Lane and Roman Greg; a sister, Suzanne Kester; a brother, Paul (Lori) Kester; a niece, Kaitlyn (Vince) Cherry; a nephew, Jeffrey (Kristina) Kester; a sister-in-law, Jean Vandenberghe (Barbara Branski); several cousins; and many friends in the community, fire department and church family.

A private interment will take place at the convenience of the family. A Celebration of Life for Bob and Gail will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Robert’s name may be made to Middleport United Methodist Church, 9 Park Ave., Middleport NY 14105; or to Middleport Fire Department, 28 Main St., Middleport NY 14105.

Robert’s arrangements have been entrusted to Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, Middleport. To share a special memory of Robert, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.