Lester Murray

Lester Allan Murray, 64 of Ft Collins, Colorado died at his home on Thursday, July 21, 2011. Lester was born January 24, 1947 in Montpelier, VT., to Clifton and Ruth Murray. His parents later divorced and remarried. Lester then added Thelma Murray and Garfield Trudeau as additional parents. Lester grew up in Vermont and Connecticut and graduated from Middletown High School, Middletown, Connecticut. Lester attended Vermont Technical College in Randolph, Vermont. Lester proudly served in the US Marine Corps from 1968-1972 and served in Viet Nam. In 1989 Lester moved to California briefly before returning to Randolph, VT to be with his future wife, Lesley. In 1991 they moved to Colorado with their son Lyle. Lester worked in the fireplace industry for many years and eventually owned his own business. Lester enjoyed hot air ballooning, running road races, camping, cheering loudly at CSU women's basketball games, spending time with his grandchildren, and making trips to the local library or book store to feed his love of reading. Lester enjoyed attending the CSU games with his hair and face fully painted green and gold. Lester was very active and passionate about supporting programs that helped others. He actively supported the MS Society through the Challenge Walk and The Wild West MS Walk About, the Alzheimer's Association, and the Victim's Response Team through the Larimer County Sheriff's Department. Lester was always the first one to say "ok, how can we do this and what do you need me to do!" Lester was preceded in death by, his fathers Clifton Murray and Garfield Trudeau, His mother Ruth Trudeau, Sister Nancy Thayer, and nephew Brian Thayer. He is survived by his wife Lesley Murray of Ft. Collins, Colorado; son Lyle Murray and daughter in law Jackie Murray of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa; Mother Thelma Murray of Braintree Vermont, Grandchildren Logan and Taylor Murray, and several nieces and nephews. In addition Lester is survived by his "adopted" daughter Lindsey Modesitt and "adopted" grandchildren Savannah Jaska and Ella and Chase Modesitt. Lester was blessed to have many wonderful friends and once he was seen and heard was never forgotten. Memorial donations may be sent in his name to the K-9 Bed and Biscuit, CNS Foundation for MS programs, Pathways Hospice, or charity of your choice. Special thanks to Dr Herrera, Dr McIntosh, Doug Hornberger, and the many friends and family members who have shown amazing support to Lester's family. A memorial service will be held on Saturday July 23, 2011 at 1 o'clock PM at the Glenn Morris Field House, 901 S. College Ave. Parking on West side of building. Casual attire requested.