Wisconsin — For generations of customers, Ron Lester was more than a farmer and market vendor. He was a storyteller, businessman, veteran and familiar face whose presence helped make every visit to his country store memorable. His death has left family, friends, customers and members of the Kenosha County community remembering a remarkable life built around service, hard work, family and an enduring passion for bison.

Ronald “Ron” Lester died Sunday, August 30, 2026, at his home in Burlington, Wisconsin, just seven days after celebrating his 93rd birthday, according to his published obituary. Born in Pulaski, Wisconsin, to Emil and Louise Lasecki, Lester grew up with a strong connection to farming and later devoted much of his life to work, military service and entrepreneurship.

Before becoming known throughout southeastern Wisconsin for his bison operation, Lester served an extraordinary 22-year career in the United States Marine Corps. He joined the Marines at just 16½ years old and served during the Korean War, where he was wounded three times. His military service earned him several major decorations, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Marine Corps Navy Medal. He also served with a highly selective intelligence unit whose operations remained largely confidential.

After leaving the Marine Corps in 1973, Lester turned his attention toward business. Beginning with only $109, he developed a successful material-service company and gradually built a substantial business through determination, reinvestment and a willingness to work. His children later became involved in operating the company, extending the business legacy he had created.

Lester’s passion for bison began during his military years. While serving as an instructor, he studied the animals and traveled to Custer State Park in South Dakota to observe their behavior. He eventually brought that fascination into civilian life. In 1980, he and his family traveled to Colorado and returned with four bison, establishing the foundation for what would become Lester’s Bison Farm.

After moving to Kenosha County, Lester developed the farm and later opened Lester’s Country Store on the Ranch in Salem. The store became a destination for customers seeking bison, beef, pork, lamb, elk, venison, poultry, cheeses, baked goods, preserves and other products. More importantly, customers could often expect a conversation and one of Lester’s many stories.

His gift for storytelling was part of his identity from childhood. Lester once explained that his grandparents encouraged him to create stories and judged them on their quality. Decades later, he continued sharing those stories with customers who visited the store.

Lester and his wife, Connie, were married for decades and raised seven children. Their family also grew to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating a legacy that extended well beyond his businesses and military accomplishments.

Those who encountered Ron Lester are now remembering a man who refused to let age define him. Even into his early nineties, he continued working, greeting customers and finding reasons to stay active.

His legacy lives on through his family, the businesses he built, the people he served and the countless customers who will remember the stories, humor and determination that made Ron Lester such a distinctive presence in the community.