It is with great sadness that the family of Les (Lester) Cheeseman announce his passing on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the age of 85.

Les was predeceased by his beloved wife of 55 years, Judy Cheeseman, and his only son, Gary-Paul. He leaves behind his four daughters: Janet Lethbridge, Leslie Cheeseman, Lisa Petrie, and Twila Varga (Darren). He will be deeply missed by his eight grandchildren: Robin Chiles (Greg), Alexa Spence (Mark), Ashley Gauthier (Joel), Brittany Lethbridge, Paul Evans (Carey), Kyle Evans (Larissa), Cassandra Morphet, and Melissa Evans (Dylan); as well as his fifteen great-grandchildren: Jake Chiles (Julia), Skylur Melanson, Brooklyn Chiles, Chazz Melanson, Russell Rea, Lyla Spence, Aurora Dryland, Frank Spence, Stella Rea, Kisa Evans, Kennedy Evans, Lucas Evans, Lola Evans, Leon Evans and Kane Evans. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.

Les was born in Saskatchewan on November 3, 1940, to Anne Sarah Fisher and Edwin Cheeseman, who tragically lost his life in World War II at the age of 29. Les spent 17 years working for Nabors Drilling, a time he often spoke of as a highlight of his career. He later worked at the Westerner in Red Deer for several years before retiring. In his retirement, Les devoted much of his time to caring for his wife, Judy.

Les enjoyed the simple pleasures in life—watching westerns, sci-fi movies, and action-packed shows. He loved playing cards with family, and one of the highlights of his week was going out for supper at ABC Country Restaurant in Red Deer. With a big smile, he would often say, “They all know me here.”

Known for his kindness and generosity, Les was someone who would give you the shirt off his back. He loved his four daughters deeply and would do anything for them. As a grandfather, he became the “fun Papa,” always eager to spend time at the park and create lasting memories with his grandchildren. Les was the kind of person you could turn to for help—he would always be there without hesitation.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses in the Red Deer Emergency Department and to Red Deer EMS for their compassion and care during Les’s final moments.

A celebration of Les’s life will be held at a later date

• Date : 2026-04-04
• Location : Red Deer Funeral Home