Lester Svenby, 97, of Owatonna, died Friday, July 22, 2016 at Traditions II in Owatonna. He was born December 7, 1918, in Mahnomen County, Minnesota the son of Jens and Karen (Johnson) Svenby. He was drafted into the United States Army on January 23, 1942, and served overseas in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Central Europe and Ardennes. While in the service, he married Vivian Reese on May 9, 1943, at LeSueur River Lutheran Church. Following his honorable discharge on October 30, 1945, the couple moved back to Owatonna and farmed until 1962. Lester then went to work at Jostens for a while and then Northwestern Bell from which he retired on December 1, 1983. In retirement, the couple enjoyed traveling in their van, many trips to Las Vegas, fishing on Lake Mille Lacs, dancing and spending time with family. Lester was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and a life member of both the V.F.W. and American Legion. At age 89, he was proud to take the Honor Flight to Washington D.C. Lester was a true gentleman. He always held the door for ladies and thanked anyone who did something special for him. He is survived by his children, Devon Anderson of Chanhassen, LeRoy (Judy) Svenby of Owatonna, Jerry (Kathy) Svenby of The Villages, FL, and Wayne (Marcia) Svenby of Prior Lake; 10 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Vivian (November 13, 2005); son-in-law, Ray Anderson and 10 siblings. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna with Reverend Todd Buegler officiating. Local military honors will be by the Steele County Military Funeral Team. Visitation will be Tuesday at the church from 9:30 until the hour of service. Interment will be in the Ft. Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis. Memorials are preferred to Owatonna Home Care & Hospice or donors choice. Visitation: 07/26/2016 09:30 07/26/2016 11:00 Service: 07/26/2016 11:00