Paul "Lester" Pedersen passed away peacefully at the age of 69 on April 1, 2026, following a long illness at HopeWest Hospice Care Center in Grand Junction, Colorado. Lester was born in Bottineau, North Dakota and was the son of the late Maxine Pedersen and Paul "Pete" Pedersen.

Lester graduated from Montezuma-Cortez High School in Cortez, Colorado in 1974. After graduation Lester enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served from October 2, 1974 to October 10, 1978.

A devoted phone technician for CenturyLink for over 17 years, Lester loved solving problems and helping others.

Lester enjoyed playing golf, softball, basketball, country music, square dancing, playing cards, and spending time with family. He was friendly, outgoing, and hardworking.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents Paul "Pete" Pedersen and Maxine Pedersen.

Lester is survived by his wife Diane Pedersen, a son Bryce Pedersen "Di", five grandchildren, a sister Judy Winters "Harold" and family.

Graveside Services will be Saturday April 25, 2026 at the Cortez Cemetery in Cortez, Colorado at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the HopeWest Hospice Care Center in Grand Junction, Colorado 81506.