Steven Douglas Lester
October 20, 1955 - May 23, 2026
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Steven Douglas Lester on May 23, 2026, at the age of 70. After being diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, Steve confronted that relentless cancer with courage and bravery.
Steve was born on October 20, 1955, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He graduated from Cottonwood High School then continued his studies at the University of Utah. He worked in the security industry for over 40 years.
He had a soft spot for rescuing his beloved, abandoned shih tzus, treating each one like the valuable family members they were. Steve always said that they rescued him, especially little Maxwell, who adored Steve beyond measure.
A long-time parishioner at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Steve served as Jr. Warden for many years, including time overseeing the renovation and restoration of the church and the addition of a new preschool. He also coordinated housing projects that the Parish sponsored for those in need.
His many talents included woodworking, carving, painting, crocheting, gardening, and mini-brick construction. His solace was time spent camping and hiking in the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains. His passion for 1970s music never ended; he had his playlist on through the moment of his last breath.
We are grateful for the extraordinary care Steve received at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. The providers there are compassionate and determined; there are not enough words to express adequate gratitude.
Steve loved and appreciated his special Highland Park neighbors, his parish community, his garden club friends, and so many others.
Steve is survived by his spouse of 45 years, Russell Pack; the Pack family; his brother, Richard; a special niece, Katy; Shellie; his shih tzu, Scooter; and too many friends, neighbors, extended family, and colleagues to mention. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Faye Harris Lester; and by his siblings, Melvin, Karen, and Sandy.
A Celebration of Life will be held later.
How lucky I am to have had someone that made saying goodbye so hard.
In Loving Memory
Steve brought a bright light every time I saw him. I will always remember his wonderful smile. He had a genuine and authentic soul. Rest easy our beloved friend. He always made me feel so special and cherished. To Russ, we love you are here. You have a tribe of people surrounding you with light and love. Steve was so incredibly lucky to have you by his side.
To our wonderful neighbor and friend. We will miss you. We enjoyed your smile and friendly conversation during your humble service around the neighborhood. For many years you made our streets beautiful with your generous time spent hanging seasonal lamp decor for us all to enjoy. To Russ, our hearts are broken for your loss. Your loving relationship was a wonderful example to all those that knew the two of you. We are so grateful for the time we were able to spend with you both through the years. All our Love, Scott and Andrea
Steve, you will be deeply missed. You had such a warm and calming presence, and I am grateful our paths crossed. You gave me more than a hobby when you inspired me to take up crochet; you gave me something peaceful and grounding that I'll forever associate with you. I will carry memories of your kindness, humor, creativity, and compassion with me always. Russ, I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. Steve was such a kind and gentle presence, and I know how deeply he was loved. My heart is with you, and I am holding you in my thoughts.
Dearest Russ.. my Nance and I are sending love and condolences to you and the entire family. You're in our hearts. As always, I'm only a call away old friend. Peace..💔
Steve Lester and Russ Pack have been dear friends for decades, always going beyond in their kindness. Don will always remember the personal visit of encouragement Steve gave him just before triple bypass surgery some years ago. Through his own crushing health issues these last few years, we cannot fathom the physical and mental strength Steve has shown. And we are in awe of the unrelenting care Russ has provided to his lifelong companion. All that could be done, has been done, dear Steve…take flight into eternity with that love.
Steve was such a kind and generous person, and I know how deeply he was loved. I’m holding you in my thoughts and wishing you strength and comfort.
Steve and Russ are integral parts of our lives. We will miss him and his clever wit. He was an integral part of St. Paul's and his untiring efforts as junior warden during the extensive renovation project will not soon be forgotten. All of our sympathies go out to Russ and other family members at this difficult time. He will live on in our memories with fondness. Nick & Sabine Gold
It has been my honor to know Steve Lester and Russ Pack for many years. They have always shown me such kindness. The last several years as Steve battled his health issues, he and I created an even closer bond through crocheting. Every Thursday at two we would crochet and talk - we called it croshitting. I was also happy to tend Scooter when I was needed when they were involved in hospital procedures. You just couldn’t find better people than this couple. Russ, anything you need please let me know.
My dear friend, I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Steve and for your loss. He was your beloved husband and also a dear friend. I feel grateful to have known him. There are no words that can truly ease the pain of such a loss, but please know my heart is with you during this difficult time. I will always remember Steve for his kindness, warmth, and the joy he brought to those around him including the dad jokes. May the love you shared and the many memories you created together bring you comfort in the days ahead. With love and deepest sympathy, Nancy.
I am so saddened to hear you have left us. I am so blessed to have had the chance to get to meet both you and Russ. You were such a blessing and a very special soul. May you rest in paradise my friend. My deepest condolences to your whole family and friends. I will miss our catch up conversations about everything. Your smile was a one in a million! I’ll be keeping you and Russ in my thoughts and prayers!
The first time I met Steve I was struck by his kindness. He could not have been more solicitous or caring. Perhaps that's the best compliment any of us can hope for. Much love.
Steve’s dedication to attending St. Paul’s Online Sunday Morning Prayer service was heart warming and a wonderful example of spirit to us all. He will be missed. Russ, John and I send our love. You and your family are truly in our prayers.
My condolences to you, Russ, at this time of great sorrow. May you find the-peace that God offers us all in times of sadness. Anita
Steve you will be missed. You did so much for St Paul’s and the Salt Lake community Thoughts and Prayers for you and Russ
In Loving Memory
