Saratoga Springs, NY - The man, the myth, the legend - Lester John Nimsker, 97, passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving wife Sunday morning, April 2, 2017. He was born in Warsaw, NY to John L. and Mary M. (Carney) Nimsker on February 4, 1920.  He lived in Warsaw for 42 years where he was President of Kiwanis and Boy Scout Troop Leader for 12 years, before moving to Saratoga in 1968.

Lester graduated from Warsaw High School and graduated from Fenn College (Cleveland State University) with a degree in Structural Engineering, where he participated in the work-study program, spending 9 months with the Tennessee Valley Authority.  After graduating in 1943 he joined the US Army Combat Engineers, in the Philippines Islands.  Retiring from army service, he passed the NY state exam for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.  Lester was employed with the Genesee State Park Commission at Letchworth State Park.  Starting as a Sr. Engineer Draftsman, he advanced by taking the Civil Service tests and was promoted to the Capital District Regional Park Manager, retiring in 1974.  He then worked for the CDTA as Capital Project Manager, retiring in 1985.

He was a member of many organizations, including the Board of American Red Cross, Saratoga Golf & Polo Club, Saratoga Springs Recreation Committee (actively supporting the Saratoga Ice Skating Club), Beekeepers Assoc., Master Gardeners.

Lester was an avid deer hunter, trout fisherman, beekeeper and gardener, loving the outdoors and nature.  He loved his wood lathe and built more than 100 stools that he gave to family and friends.  He was a good wood worker.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Rhoda; daughters Claudia (Cliff) Van Wagner, Marilee (Joe) Urbanczyk, Anne (Martin) Acuna, Leslie (Joe) Fleming; seven grandchildren; a great grandson; nieces, nephews and extended family. Lester was the best husband, father, grandfather and friend anyone could ever ask for.

Funeral services will be held at 11am Saturday, April 8, 2017 at Bethesda Episcopal Church, 41 Washington St.   Inurnment will take place at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a Saratoga charity of your choice.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.