Obituary for Lester Hacker
Lester Robert Hacker, 77, of East Peoria, Illinois passed away on February 16, 2015 in Peoria, Illinois. He was born April 14, 1937 to McKinley Hacker and Bessie E (Rotholtz) Hacker, the youngest of four sons. Albert and Edward preceded him in death. He is survived by Gene Hacker. He was a devoted husband to Dorothy “Euree” Hacker, his high-school sweetheart. They wed on August 25, 1957 the summer after her graduation. Her happiness was always his first thought, with the exception of her first driving lesson which may or may not have influenced her dislike of driving to this day. They shared an extraordinary love for one another. He was fiercely protective of his two daughters, Joan (Jeff) Flaugher and Gina Hacker. His steadfast love for his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren was unmistakable and could be felt by everyone who shared his company. He worked in skilled trades at Caterpillar as a construction welder and retired after 37 years. He achieved State Certification in his endeavor for excellence in his field. He was also a welding instructor at ICC for over 40 years, never quite retiring and having last taught in 2014. The efforts of him and his students can be seen every year at the festival of lights parade as the bat mobile goes rolling past. He discovered a lifelong interest in competitive shooting during his years of service in the Illinois National Guard (1958-1961). He earned many awards, trophies, and recognition for his skills on the shooting range. He was a member of Peoria Skeet and Trap, the Tremont Sportsmen’s Club, and previously served as the treasurer of the River Valley Sportsmen’s Club. Words can’t express how much he will be missed. While no one was prepared for his loss, we are comforted by memories of his loyalty, devotion, and strength. He will always break a hundred in our hearts. Cremation has been accorded and no services will be held. Memorials can be made OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice home.
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