Van Steven Lester

Van Steven Lester, 56 of Sebring, Florida passed away on June 21, 2015 at Highlands Regional Medical Center due to surgical complications. Makes sense if you knew him, since he was rarely the uncomplicated sort. He was born on April 5, 1959 in Hialeah, Florida to a large, but extremely loving family. Tragedy struck him at a young age. He carried a pain and a void that he could never quite shake. Through that pain he built a vault of such a beautiful and unconditional love that it was blinding. Anyone that knew him knew that building was his thing- so that vault was pretty amazing. Not much of a school man he watched and learned everything he could, excelling in anything he could get his workingman's hands on. He was a visionary that expressed himself to the best of his ability in all the projects he created. Although, he had a gruff exterior all it took was a smile to get that twinkle in his eye, or an off-color joke to see the true teddy bear that hid under all that facial hair. He is preceded in death by his parents James and Betty Lester, and his brothers, David Lee, Patrick and Gary Lester. He is survived by his other half Gladys Loverkovic, his daughter, Vanessa Davidson, his grand-daughter, Kaylen Davidson, brother, James Lester, and sisters, Betty Sue Teets and Diane Martinez, as well as several nieces and nephews. With great sadness we say goodbye to this hard-working man with his easy humor and devilish ways. A loving father and devoted "Papa," he was always one to lend a helping hand and try to get people together-even if it meant almost blowing himself up with fireworks every 4th of July. He will have a small remembrance service at The House of Worship and Prayer on Saturday, June 27, 2015, at 11am. In lieu of flowers we ask that you raise your glass and make a toast in true Van style to remember this amazing man we all loved. Arrangements entrusted to: Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home (863) 385-0125 Online condolences may be left at: www.stephensonnelsonfh.com