Collected dolls, devoted to grandkids
Lesta Lee Hemstreet, 75, of Newark, California, formerly of Forest Park, died on Aug. 13, 2022 after a valiant fight against various cancers. Born on Feb. 8, 1947 in Oak Park to Lester and Lorraine Bestwick, she enjoyed several hobbies throughout her life like reading, researching family history, collecting dolls and knitting.
She married John “Jack” Hemstreet on Christmas Eve in 1966. They celebrated their 50th anniversary on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.
Lesta is survived by her brothers, Stewart (Marjorie) and David (Lyla) Bestwick; her sisters, Kileen (Louie) Koutromanos and Peggy Glenn; her brothers in-law, Thomas (Gina), Robert, Terrence, and Richard Hemstreet; and her sisters in-law, Janet (Bill) Luneback, Patti (Brad) Follett, Marybeth (Steve) Bukovach, Laurel (Fred) Lamb.
She was predeceased by her parents; her in-laws, John and Patricia Hemstreet, as well as her brother, Rick.
Her well-tuned mix of love and firmness in caring for others was not only known by her family but also all those she came in contact with personally and professionally. She was a beloved aunt to many nephews and nieces, but the one thing that truly brought great joy into her life was her grandchildren. She never missed an opportunity to shower her grandchildren with great love, support and praise.
A private family service will be held on Oct. 21.
