Lester E. Altland, 82, died at 8:10 p.m. on Thursday, March 11, 2010, at his home. He was the beloved husband of Geraldine L. (Snyder) Altland. The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on March 21, 2009.

He was born December 21, 1927, in York, a son of the late Reuben Altland and Myrtle L. (Urich) Altland Detter. He was the stepson of the late Robert Detter.

Lester was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and a member of White Rose VFW Post #556 in York. He had 30 years of service as a tool and die maker for AMF, York.

Lester was a member of the United Methodist faith. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

A loving husband and father, Lester was a true, all around gentleman. His family thought the world of him. He was always willing to help those in need, often putting their needs before his own. Lester will forever be remembered for his kind soul and forgiving heart. He will be dearly missed.

In addition to his wife, Lester is survived by a daughter, Linda Runkle of Harrisburg; five grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a brother, Kenneth Altland of Hollywood, Fla. He was preceded in death by two grandsons, Charles Runkle and Jesse Runkle; a brother, John J. Altland; and a sister, Charmaine Smith.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the graveside service at 1:30 p.m. on Monday in Suburban Memorial Gardens, 3875 Bull Road, Dover, where veteran’s honors will be presented by York County Veterans Honor Guard. There will be no viewing. Officiating will be the Rev. Bonnie Whittier, pastor of St. Paul’s Red Run U.C.C., East Berlin. Emig Funeral Home, Dover, is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Patient Help Fund c/o York Health Foundation, 912 S. George St., York , PA 17403 . Published in York Daily Record & York Dispatch on March 14, 2010