Lester Firmin Jr. passed away on June 17, 2010. Born in Plaucheville on Aug. 30, 1936, he was the loving husband of Larix Margarita Firmin for 52 years, wonderful father of Eileen Coleman (husband David Wayne Coleman) of Jacksonville, Fla., and Andre Lester Firmin (wife Carol) from Pearland, Texas; and grandfather of seven: David, Kyle, and Derek Coleman, Amanda, Kristin, Madeline and Trevor Firmin.

Lester was a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps and served in Korea and Okinawa, Japan.

He was a former Post Commander of LaPlace VFW Post 3337 for 14 years and was a former Post Commander of LaPlace American Legion Post 383.

Under his command he acquired the property for the VFW Post as to be sure veterans had a place to call home. He also joined the campaign to bring the veterans home to the River Parishes, writing letters to national VFW officials, Louisiana government officials, St. John the Baptist Parish president and local newspapers stating that the River Parishes were the best place for a VFW Home because of the high numbers of veterans living in the region. He received numerous awards for his Americanism and youth programs in local schools.

Lester was involved in multiple community activities. He held fishing, horse and bull riding rodeos, Toys for Tots for underprivileged children, food and fruit baskets for families in need at Thanksgiving and Christmas and donations to buy bulletproof vests for LaPlace police officers under the command of Sheriff Johnson. His main focus was on veteran programs. He brought donations of coffee, sugar and cream to the Veteran’s Hospital in New Orleans, spent many a days with his other VFW members in the veteran’s home in Jackson, La., bringing all kinds of goodies and playing BINGO for cash prizes. At the end of the game, all veterans who played but didn’t win were given a consolation prize of cash. Although he was dedicated to his veteran programs, he was always committed to serve his fellow comrades. Lester was a member of the LaPlace Knights of Columbus 5935, was a former president of the K of C Home Association and a member of St. Joan of Arc Church.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Mass at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 529 W. Fifth St., LaPlace, on July 17 at 7:30 a.m.

Visit www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com to sign the online guestbook.