Lester Bodnar Obituary

Lester Bodnar, aged 94, of Nanuet, NY passed away on June 23, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Born January 7, 1931, in Miskolc, Hungary, Lester, or Laci as he was affectionately known, was lovingly called Opa by not only his grandchildren and great-grandchildren but by many friends. He was the second eldest son of Ivan and Maria Bodnar in a family of five sons. Faced with significant hardships, Lester's family necessitated that he discontinues his education after his second year to contribute to supporting their family.
Lester carried a strong work ethic throughout his life. While raising his young family in America, he held three jobs simultaneously. He acquired the skills to become a house painter and eventually ventured out on his own. He hired and trained several employees, building Bodnar Painting into a successful business.
Lester was a skilled outdoorsman, avid hunter, and fisherman. He processed his game and filleted his fish, providing many healthy meals for his family. He was also a dedicated gardener, renowned for his fresh vegetables. He generously shared his harvest with friends, neighbors, and even strangers he encountered at the park. In his later years, when physical limitations began to affect him, he directed his ever-willing wife, Maria, to plant and care for the garden until they sold their family home after 51 years.
Lester and Maria celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary on January 28,2025. They spent most of their free time together, cheering on their Yankees and each having a favorite player. In later years, he required assistance, which Maria provided with tender loving care. Many believe Maria's devotion to Lester gave him the gift of time.
Lester is survived by his wife, Maria; two daughters, Irene Ganssle and Lisa LaCava, along with husband, Frank; six grandchildren, Christopher Ganssle and his wife, Lauren, Danielle Ganssle, Nicole LaCava and her fiancé, Brian, Julia Staudt and her husband, Rob, Fawnia Bodnar, and Dakota Bodnar; as well as two great grandsons, Jack Ganssle and Tryston Vasquez.
Lester was predeceased by his parents, several brothers, his daughter Brigitta Bodnar, and his granddaughter Sara Rose Ganssle.
Lester was cherished as a husband, father, brother, Opa, and great-Opa, and he will be profoundly missed. Perhaps they are not stars but rather openings in heaven through which the love of our lost ones pours down to remind us they are at peace.
A memorial service will take place on July 6, 2025, with visiting hours from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Source Funeral Home, 728 West Nyack Road, West Nyack, NY 10994.
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