Nov. 1, 1944 — July 2, 2014

Lester’s life began on Nov. 1, 194,4 in Steele, Missouri, the son of James and Maidress (Harden) Hodge. He was united in marriage on June 14, 1964, to Joyce Moore, who preceded him in death last year.

Lester worked as a tool and die machine operator for many years at K&M Tool Works in Cassopolis and then Rudy Manufacturing and National Copper in Dowagiac.

He was president and lifetime member of local union 1218 UAW and served as Wayne Township supervisor and was a member of the Victory Tabernacle Church of Dowagiac. Lester loved music and played piano for his church as well as other instruments. He loved fishing and when he wasn’t playing music or fishing you would find him on the golf course with his golfing partner Chet.

His children said, “It seems he knew everyone he met.”

His loving family includes his three children, Lisa Zelmer and Mike Hodge of Dowagiac and Rick (Amanda) Hodge of Elkhart; six grandchildren, Alivia Hodge, Steven Cole, Kaitlyn Foster, Ashley Foster, Joshua Boise and Brandon Hodge; three great-grandchildren, Skyla Cole, Kealey Foster and Joseph Cole.

Surviving brothers and sisters include Paul (Sharon) Hodge of Dowagiac, Bobby Hodge of Sturgis, Frances Caruthers of Sturgis, Larry Hodge of Dowagiac, Evelyn Caruthers of Dowagiac and Belinda Checkley of Dowagiac. Another brother, James Hodge preceded him in death.

Lester passed away at home on Wednesday, July 2, 2014. His family will gather with friends from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 9 at Victory Tabernacle Church in Dowagiac where a funeral service will begin at 1 p.m.

He will be laid to rest in South Wayne Cemetery. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the family. Clark Chapel & Cremation Services is serving the family. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Lester at www.clarkch.com.