Lester Alvan Hankamer, 84, of Hankamer, Texas, passed away on March 27, 2026, at home, exactly where he loved to be—surrounded by the family who adored him.
Born on Sept. 11, 1941, to Ira Jett Hankamer and Gladys Moor Hankamer, Lester grew up in the community that would shape his entire life. He graduated from Anahuac High School in 1959 and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Southwest Texas State Teacher’s College in 1964.
Lester was a man whose life was rooted in love, loyalty, and simple joys. He spent 63 years married to his beloved wife, Ann, and together they built a life full of laughter, hard work, and adventure. Their partnership was steady and joyful, and even after her passing in 2022, Lester spoke of her with the same warmth he always had. He is also preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Daniel and Wayne; and Wayne’s wife, P.D.
He leaves behind a family who will forever carry his stories and his spirit:
– Suzanne McManus and husband Will of Buda, Texas
– Lynette Rieth and husband Mark of Cypress, Texas
– Lester A. Hankamer Jr. and wife Tish of Hankamer
His grandchildren—Rachel Beyer, Grace McManus, Zachary McManus, Cameron Rieth, Bryce Rieth, Austin Rieth, Taylor Hankamer, Kate Hankamer, and Sonjia Hankamer—were a constant source of pride. And nothing delighted him more in recent years than the giggles and bright eyes of his great‑granddaughters, Caroline Taylor Beyer and Eleanor Clara Beyer. Lester also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who felt like family.
Lester spent his life as a farmer and rancher, a calling that suited him perfectly. He loved the rhythm of the land—the early mornings, the long days, the satisfaction of honest work. Even in his later years, he stayed active on the ranch, always finding something that needed tending. He enjoyed being outdoors, whether he was checking on cattle, working in the garden, or cooking something he knew his family would enjoy. He also took great pride in supporting the Chambers County Museum of Wallisville, a place that held meaning for him.
One of Lester’s greatest joys was traveling with Ann. Together they explored places near and far, collecting memories and stories he loved to retell. But no matter where he went, home was always his favorite place—especially when it was filled with family. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, and he never missed a chance to share a story, a laugh, or a bit of wisdom.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 11th at First Methodist Church in Anahuac with Jamie Lea officiating. Interment will follow at Anahuac Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather from 5-7:00 PM on Friday, April 10th at Sterling Funeral Home in Anahuac.
Lester’s family would like to give a heartfelt thank‑you to Evelyn Wynn, whose care and kindness over the past several years made her part of the family. Dad trusted her and depended on her care day in and day out. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Ascend Hospice for the compassionate care they provided during his final days—especially his nurse Amber Franklin and home health aide Evette Valentine. They are also profoundly thankful for his nighttime caregivers, Kathaleen Ross and Ruchelle Richards, who kept him company through many long nights, listening to his stories and making sure he was comfortable. The family also wishes to thank Bubba Phelps for his frequent visits and the help he provided around the house and ranch.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Lester’s honor to the Chambers County Museum of Wallisville.
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