Lester M. Bontrager, 86, passed away on September 13, 2026, in Batesville, Arkansas. He was born on December 13, 1939, in Chouteau, Oklahoma, to the late Mart B. Bontrager and Barbara (Detweiler) Bontrager. Lester was a man of few words, but he never met a stranger, always lending a helping hand to his neighbors or anyone in need. He loved spending his days with his companion, Kay, and his dog, Lady. Lester was active in church, even serving as President of the board for a while, at Grace Lutheran Church in Mountain View, Arkansas. Above all else, he was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who will be greatly missed by all those blessed to know him.

Lester is survived by his son, Scott Bontrager (Julie); daughters, Diane Fischer (Jerry) and Jolene Bower; brothers, Ben Bontrager (Marilyn) and Bill Bontrager (Clara); and sister, Ida Chupp; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen (Martin) Bontrager; and several brother and sister-in-laws.