Robert Allen Lester

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Robbie Lester was born on March 17, 1967 in La Grande, Oregon. He died on October 26, 2025 in the Pendleton home he shared with his life partner of 22 years, Joseph “Joey” A. Lavadour, Jr.

He is survived by Joey Lavadour, parents Robert G. Lester of La Grande and Karen E. Pugh Simmons of La Grande, aunt Linda Hoffman of Yakima, aunt Daytine Wagoner of Pendleton, siblings Michael (Colby) Lester of Vancouver, WA, David (Crystal) Lester of Lagrande, Mark (Carleen) Lester of La Grande, Kenneth (Brittany) Simmons of Oroville, CA, and Todd (Valerie) Barker of Othello, WA, brother-in-law James L. Lavadour of Pendleton, step-son Joshua L. (Deanna) Barton, three grandchildren, and his beloved dog, Bear Bear. He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Colleen F. Lavadour.

Robbie’s life was marked by his resilience and his commitment to serving others. He faced many health issues and adversity throughout his life, but he had an unwavering will, not just to survive, but to be of service in making sure that others survived as well.

Robbie spent the last four years and eight months of his life sober and was in recovery when he passed. His heart and passion were in helping those new to recovery. He chaired up to five different NA meetings a week, arriving an hour early to make coffee, set up chairs, and be ready to greet each attendee with a handshake or a hug. He felt so good about his own recovery that he did everything he could to make others feel welcome and to facilitate success for them as well.

Robbie’s compassion and humor allowed him to connect with anyone. No one remained a stranger for more than a manner of minutes, wherein Robbie would have them smiling and feeling at home. He volunteered throughout the community, sometimes with organizations like the Pendleton Treatment Center or MARA, and often informally, sitting with those who simply needed support of any kind. He leaves a lasting legacy in the community through his example of service, love, and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Pendleton Animal Welfare Shelter, pendletonpaws.org/donate.