Lester Henry Doyel

Lester Henry Doyel was called home to be with the Lord on December 29, 2024, at the age of 99. Born on September 28, 1925, to the parents of Joe and Jesse Pearl Doyel, in Terra Bella, California, Lester was one of seven siblings. He often shared fond memories of growing up on the Zante Farm and of his early journey into the world of mechanics.

Lester was a graduate of Porterville Union High School. In 1944 at age 18, he enlisted in the United States Army. During his enlistment, he served in the Pacific Theater (Luzon, Philippines, and New Guinea). He often recounted a story of his life being saved by an American P-38 fighter pilot who fought off Japanese fighter planes attacking their garrison. Lester later served in various areas in Japan. A highlight of his post-military career was visiting Washington, D.C., (with brother Johnny by his side) as part of the Central Valley Honor Flight in 2015. Proud of his WWII contributions, Lester remained a lifelong patriot.

After being discharged from active duty, Lester was stationed in New Jersey where he met Betty Curley at a skating rink. In 1946, after a short engagement, Lester and Betty married in Red Bank New Jersey (on Lester's birthday). Lester and Betty returned to Porterville to start their family. They had two children, Robert (Bob) and Janet. In 1992, after 46 years of marriage, Les lost Betty to cancer. He later married Earline Phillips from Strathmore, and his family grew to include three sons (Larry, Jeff, and Don). Lester and Earline shared 31 years of marriage and many memories as they transitioned into retirement. In February 2023, Lester and Earline moved to the community of Sierra Hills Independent Living in Porterville. Lester continually praised his life at Sierra Hills, and he never missed an opportunity to express his gratitude and say "thank you" to the numerous people who cared for him, especially his angel, Dawn Doty.

Lester had a passion for cars, and he loved to use his hands. It only made sense he focused his career, abundant energy, and skills on cars, working as a mechanic and auto repair technician. After working at Valley Body Company for several years, Lester opened his repair shop, Les Doyel's Body and Fender Shop, which served Porterville residents for many years. After retirement, and into his 80's, Lester continued repairing and building automobiles and trucks. His handiwork is visible in the Tom Meleo Antique Chevrolet Collection located in Strathmore. Lester also had a stint building replica Phaetons and Boat Tail Auburns. He was not just a mechanic or repair technician; he was a true craftsman.

Lester's love for the Lord and the way he loved others is his true legacy. His soul radiated a light of faith, gratitude, and love, even when the most mundane chores of life became impossible for him to accomplish. Lester's love of God shined onto those around him. He would often be found singing hymns, one of his favorites being "I'll Fly Away". He is now home on "God's celestial shore".

Lester is preceded in death by his wife Betty, son Robert (Bob), daughter Janet Mann, brothers, Dale, Charles (Chuck), and Walter; sisters, Marie Adams and May Hulse. He is survived by his wife Earline Doyel, brother John Doyel, and sister Lois Wickham. Lester leaves behind two stepsons, a son-in-law, daughter-in-law(s), many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

The family wishes to thank the caregivers, medical personnel, and the Faith Baptist Church of Strathmore, who provided care and support to Lester. You all made a difference in his life.

A Visitation at Myers Chapel in Porterville, California is scheduled for Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Graveside Service will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Porterville, California on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM followed by a Celebration of Life Memorial at the Faith Baptist Church in Strathmore, CA (19661 Roth Rd, Strathmore) at 3:30 PM. Donations can be made to the Strathmore Faith Baptist Church.

To share a memory, or express condolences to the family, please visit the obituaries section of our website at www.myersfuneral.com/obituaries <http://www.myersfuneral.com/obituaries>. Myers Funeral Service & Crematory in Porterville is in charge of arrangements.