Lester A. Koebcke, 86, of Francesville, passed away at 5:05 p.m. Wednesday December 27, 2017 at his residence.

He was born October 5, 1931 in Pulaski County to the late John and Anna (Tiede) Koebcke and attended Francesville High School.

His marriage of nearly 68 years was to Bonnie Beiswanger on March 5, 1950 in her family home; she survives.

Mr. Koebcke worked for Overmyer Tile Company for several years before beginning a 53 year career in farming. A true “family farm” Bonnie and the boys would help Lester perform the daily operations. After retiring from farming Lester worked as a press operator for Wabash National for 12 years retiring in 2008.

A man of strong faith, Lester was a member of the Medaryville Christian Church where he was a former church elder and deacon. He and Bonnie were also youth leaders for 10 years.

Lester was a hard worker and instilled that value in his boys. More than anything he loved spending time with his family. He took pride in keeping his home, yard and vehicles clean and well maintained and enjoyed playing cards with family and neighbors. He also liked Chicago Blackhawk hockey, watching WWE Wrestling on television and growing his tomato plants.

Surviving with his wife Bonnie are four sons, Daryl Koebcke (wife: Susan) of Williamstown, KY, David Koebcke (wife: Debbie) of West Lafayette, Dennis Koebcke of Francesville and Dan Koebcke (wife: Bonnie) of Francesville and one sister, Leona Bucher of Kouts, IN. Lester’s pride and joy was his family, especially his 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death with his parents is a brother, Charles Koebcke and a sister, Carol Shidler.

Friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 1 p.m. (EST) Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at the Medaryville Christian Church (112 South Jefferson Street Medaryville, IN 47957); Pastor Don Nedza to officiate.

Memorials are encouraged to Bonnie Koebcke to be used for a future good in Lester’s name.