Paul J. Kester

Paul J. Kester, 89, of Berwick, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Celebration Villa, Berwick. Born in Wilkes-Barre on January 13, 1936, he was a son to the late Clarence and Susanna “Anna” (Cope) Kester.

Following his high school graduation, Mr. Kester proudly served in the United States Air Force. He had worked at the ACF in Berwick, Bethlehem Steel, and Wise Potato Chips, from which he retired after 27 years. Paul had attended Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. He was a man of many talents. He enjoyed woodworking, working on cars, and he had a knack for electrical work. Paul crafted elaborate model railroad layouts and was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. His greatest joys, however, were his family and friends and the times spent with them.

Surviving Paul are his daughter, Paulette Percey and husband, James “Jake” Percey, of Effort; grandsons: Jacob Percey and wife, Janelle, of Mechanicsburg and Brandon Percey and wife, Jenny, of Palmerton; great-grandchildren: Nikki and Autumn; brother-in-law, Richard “Dick” Good; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Joyce M. (McAllister) Kester, who passed away July 16, 2018. He was also preceded in death by siblings: Floyd Kester, Anna Askew, Pearl Zimmerman, Hazel Knoss, Helen Grietzer, and Thelma Russell.

All are welcome to join Paul’s family for his funeral 11 AM Saturday, March 22, 2025 at the Kelchner, McMichael & Readler Funeral Home, Inc., 119-121 E. Third Street, Berwick. Rev. Chad Hebrink will officiate. Friends will be received from 10 AM until the time of the service at 11 AM. Interment at Pine Grove Cemetery Annex, Walnut Street, Berwick, will follow his funeral. Military honors will be rendered graveside. Memorial contributions in Paul’s name may be made to McBride Memorial Library, 500 N. Market Street, Berwick, PA 18603. The Kelchner, McMichael & Readler Funeral Home, Inc. is honored to serve Paul’s family. Online messages of comfort and support may be left at www.kelchnerfuneralhome.com.

McBride Memorial Library
500 N. Market Street, Berwick PA 18603