Lester Alvin Moos

Lester Alvin Moos, age 95, our beloved husband, dad, pops, grandpa, and great-grandpa, passed away on May 31, 2026, in Spokane, Washington. Born on March 12, 1931, Lester was the youngest of three sons born to Will and Clara Moos. He grew up on the family farm near Edwall, Washington, a place that would remain his home and the center of his life for 85 years. He attended Edwall Schools and graduated in 1949 before continuing his education at Eastern Washington State College. His studies were interrupted by nearly two years of service in the United States Air Force, including a year spent in Korea during the conflict of the early 1950s. After returning home, he resumed his education and soon began building the life he had always envisioned. On October 2, 1955, Lester married his sweetheart, JoAnn Polenske, also of Edwall. After they returned from their honeymoon, Lester's parents moved into the town of Edwall, allowing him to take over operation of the family farm. Together, Lester and JoAnn built a life centered on faith, family, farming, and community. As the years passed, their family grew with the arrival of their son, Richard, in November 1956, and their daughter, Mary Jo, in December 1959. Lester often said that one of life's greatest pleasures was watching his children participate in school activities, and he wouldn't miss it for the world. No matter how busy the season, he would leave the tractor behind to attend events involving his children and grandchildren, even planning calving season around basketball schedules so he could be there. Those who knew Lester knew that while he loved the farm, he loved his family even more. Lester took great pride in carrying on the legacy his parents entrusted to him. In 1994, he had the joy of passing that dream on to his son, and later watching it continue through his grandson. It was one of his greatest satisfactions to see the family farm remain in the hands of the next generation. Lester's commitment to agriculture extended far beyond the boundaries of his own farm. In recognition of their dedication to responsible stewardship of the land and their contributions to the farming community, Lester and JoAnn were honored as the Davenport-Reardan Soil Conservation District Family of the Year in 1974. Just as devoted to his community as he was to farming, Lester spent a lifetime serving the people of Edwall. He served on several co-op boards of directors, he was a proud 48-year member of the Edwall Lions Club, and was well known for making chili for the annual community bingo/chili feed. Whether volunteering for local projects, serving on committees, or lending a hand to a neighbor in need, Lester believed that strong communities are built through service. He took great pride in giving back and helping make Edwall a better place for generations to come. Faith was an important part of Lester's life. He remained an active member of the Davenport-Edwall United Methodist Church throughout the years, serving on many church boards and supporting the congregation in countless ways. In 1974, Lester and JoAnn purchased property at Loon Lake and created a summer retreat that quickly became a gathering place for family and friends. Decades of memories were made there and continue to be made today. Some of Lester's favorite moments were the simplest ones—sitting on the deck with a cigar, relaxing by the bonfire, and watching four generations of family laughing and enjoying time together. He was an avid fisherman and always seemed to have a good story to share. In 2016, Lester and JoAnn moved to Blackstone Estates in Cheney, Washington. There, they celebrated a milestone that always made them smile—their first attached garage. During their nine years there, they formed many cherished friendships and adapted to life in the "city," though the farm would always be home in their hearts. Lester spent the last year of his life at The Grand at Spokane. True to his nature, he quickly made friends and became a familiar and well-liked presence among residents and staff alike. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at The Grand at Spokane for the compassion, support, and kindness they provided during his final weeks. Lester was preceded in death by his brothers, Howard and Donald. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, JoAnn; his son, Richard (Sandra) Moos; and his daughter, Mary Jo (Bruce) Cousins. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kayla (Robb) Soliday, Rychelle (Ian) Wagner, Tyler (Megan) Moos, Kelsey (Ryan) King, Tiffany Cousins, and Brandon (Morgan) Cousins; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Lester's greatest legacy is not the land he farmed, but the family he loved, the community he served, and the example of faith, hard work, generosity, and devotion he leaves behind. Lester was laid to rest in a private family burial at Edwall Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Christian Heritage School, 48009 Ida Ave E, Edwall, WA 99008. If you wish, memorial contributions may be given to Davenport-Edwall United Methodist Church or Christian Heritage School. Memorials may be mailed to Mary Jo Cousins, 16571 Oregon St N, Edwall, WA 99008. Cheney Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. To share a memory with the family, please visit https://www.cheneyfuneral.com

Lester Alvin Moos

March 12, 1931 - May 31, 2026