Lester R. Appel, 89, of Swansea, IL, born April 18, 1935, in Belleville, IL, died Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Mercy Rehab Center, Swansea, IL.
Mr. Appel was a life-long carpenter. He was a member and former president of the Carpenters Union Local 433, Belleville, IL. He was a fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council #1028 and a member of the Belleville Swansea Moose Lodge 1221. Lester enjoyed hunting, fishing, and catching a St Louis Cardinal’s game with a cold beer. RVing was another favorite of Lester’s, especially to Florida while visiting his daughters.
Lester was preceded in death by two sons, Steven Appel and Mark Appel; his parents, Lester T. and Anna M., nee Georgal, Appel; a sister, Jo Ann Edmundson; his brother, Robert Appel, Sr.
Surviving are his loving wife of 68 years, Mary Ann Appel, nee Falcetti; a son, Randy Appel; three daughters, Karen (David) Beardsley, Barbara (James) Peltason, and Susan (Andy) Kimball; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Judy Saeger and Janie Gaubatz; and many dear nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to BJC Hospice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit with the family from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 14, 2025, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, April 14, 2025, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Fr. Larry Lemay officiating.
Burial with will be held at a later date.
