Obituary of Harrell Kesterson

Harrell “Big Daddy” Kesterson, a resident of Deer Park for 57 years, went peacefully to be with his Heavenly Father on Sunday, January 28, 2007, at the age of 78 years. Harrell was born February 2, 1928 in Eylau, Texas to the late Thomas and Lela Mae (Thomas) Kesterson. Harrell proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in World War II. He was former Fire and Police Commissioner of Deer Park, Charter Member and Past President of the Deer Park Volunteer Fire Department, a lifetime member of the Deer Park Masonic Lodge # 1362, Charter Member and Past President of the Deer Park Rotary Club, and Past President of the Houston Independent Auto Dealers Association. Harrell was instrumental in the construction in 1956 of the Deer Park City Hall, Police Station and Court Building. Harrell and Sylvia are members of Central Baptist Church of Deer Park. In addition to these mentioned organizations, Harrell was involved in numerous other community associations and activities. Harrell is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia J. Kesterson; sons, Steve Kesterson and wife Michele, and David Kesterson and wife Rhonda; 18 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 47 years, Annetta Kesterson and his sister, Geneva Mattox. A celebration of Harrell’s life will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, February 3, 2007, at Central Baptist Church, 210 W. X St., in Deer Park. In lieu of usual remembrances, memorials in Harrell’s honor may be made to The Wheel House, 206 W. Helgra, Deer Park, TX 77536, The Star of Hope Mission, or to a charity of one’s choice.