Lester Bartholow

Was born to eternal life on Saturday, September 29th, 2018; his 82nd birthday. He was preceded in death by his parents Lester Carl Bartholow Sr. and Jean Lipinski. Beloved husband of Christine J. Bartholow (nee Bangen) of Elm Grove. Loving stepfather to Dr. Amy Zosel (Rusty) of Elm Grove, Dr. Katherine Bangen (John Carter) of Encinitas, CA and Sara Bangen (Elijah Portugal) of Davis, CA. He was the proud Papa to grandchildren Juliana, Isabella and Arely Zosel; Lance and William Carter; Ona Portugal and her new born little brother. Also survived by sister-in-law Martha (John) Dedering of Bonney Lake, WA and children Jessica, Matthew and Hannah, and many other family and friends.  

Les spent almost 11 years in the US Marine Corps and had brilliant academic achievements, earning a BS in chemistry from Stanford University, a MS in biology from Bemidji State University, a MS in nutritional biochemistry and metabolism from MIT, and a PhD in biochemistry and nutrition from Harvard University, where he also taught for several years.

Les' professional experience included senior vice president and general manager, as well as research and development and other management positions for Pharmacia and Upjohn, Kabi Vitrum Cutter Pharmaceuticals and Kelloggs. In later years he consulted for pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

Les enjoyed chess, jazz, film, sudokus, biking, and hiking the John Muir trail, one of his proudest accomplishments. He loved animals and being a hospice volunteer. Les and Christine travelled extensively in Europe, Asia and Australia.

Les was a man who lived his faith; he will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at Becker Ritter Funeral Home (14075 W. North Ave, Brookfield, WI) from 10:00AM until the time of service at 11:00AM. Lunch to follow at Western Racquet Club (1800 Highland Dr., Elm Grove)

Memorials to Lutheran Home (7500 W. North Ave. Wauwatosa WI 53213)  or Vitas Hospice  would be appreciated.  

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