September 16, 1941 - December 26, 2022
Lester Charles Poulsen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and proud veteran passed away peacefully December 26, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. He was 81 years young and lived a happy fulfilling life.
Lester was born in French Camp, CA to Mary and Marvin Poulsen on September 16, 1941. He was the third of 5 children. He was preceeded in death by his parents and sister Frances Hill and is survived by brothers Stewart (Paulette), Richard (Teresa) and Lyle (Diane).
Lester grew up in Stockton and graduated from Edison High School in 1959. He worked at his father’s garage before enlisting in the Air Force as an aviation mechanic from 1961-1965. He received orders he’d be stationed in Morocco, North Africa for 18 months. So before leaving, Lester married the love of his life, Diane Jacopetti on February 18, 1962. He had very fond memories of his time in Morocco learning the culture and some of the Arabic language, which he talked of frequently. His time in the Air Force also had Lester and Diane living in Lincoln, Nebraska and Marysville, California.
Lester and Diane were blessed with 2 children, Lester Poulsen II in 1968 and Melissa Poulsen in 1971. Lester felt blessed to be married to his “Sweed” for 60 years.
Lester was a diesel marine mechanic working at Colberg Shipyard in Stockton and Fulton Shipyard in Antioch for 19 years. He was also a mechanic, truck driver and automation clerk at the Post Office in Stockton for a total of 26 years before retiring in 2010.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, gambling, golfing, listening to old time country music, watching cowboy movies, and being with family. Dad always said, “I was born a hundred years too late.” He was a true cowboy in heart and mind. In his later years, he was a member of the Elks Lodge and The Moose where he and his “Sweed” enjoyed singing karaoke, eating dinner and visiting with friends.
Lester is survived by his devoted wife, Diane, of 60 years and his children Lester Poulsen II (Yolanda) and Melissa Romero (Tony) and 4 grandchildren: Vincent, Joseph and Jasmyne Poulsen and Madilyn Romero. He is also survived by his kitty Coco and dog Daisy.
A Celebration of Life is being held on Monday, January 16, 2023 10:00am @ The Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial 14165 N. Beckman Road, Lodi, CA. A reception is immediately following at The Elks Lodge 8900 Thornton Road, Stockton, CA.
Please leave your condolences below.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Poulsen family.
