Robert B. "Speed" Kester

Robert Kester – Rochester, MN

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Robert B. Kester on Friday, October 10, 2025.

Bob was born to Cyril and Ethel (Holets) Kester on July 8, 1951 in Preston, MN. He was 74 years old. As a young child he overcame polio. Bob graduated from Mayo High School, Rochester MN and soon after was drafted into the Army. He was stationed in Italy during his service. When he returned home, he also served in the Reserves.

Speed was a nickname he received from friends because he would answer questions, they put to him MINUTES after they were asked. He had a deep slow drawl at times and a pace to match. He could be swift under the right circumstances, however! Bob was a natural artist who never appreciated his own talent. When he was a young man, he had the hippie long curly hair and rode a motorcycle, which he had hand-painted a design on the gas tank.

Being the handsome man he was, Deb Broin found him! Speed and Deb were wed, August 3, 1975. They brought two sons: Shaun Kester and Joseph Kester into the world with love. Bob suffered a brain aneurysm just before his second son was born. This changed the trajectory of his life and all those who loved him. The event ended his career at IBM. After a long recovery he was able to work at ABC (Ability Building Community) where he continued to help support his family.

Bob's love, personality and sense of humor always came through despite his hardships. I don't think a man could have been more proud of his sons. He loved them greatly. Shaun and Sarah gave him two beautiful grandchildren. Though the marriage ended, Speed and Deb's love did not. His family were the most important people in his life.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Diane Vogen; and brother, Wayne Kester; and nephew, Scott W. Kester. His mother and father in-law (Spud & Donna Broin) and brother-in-law, Ken Beckwith also preceded him. He is survived by his former wife, Deb (Broin) Kester, his son, Shaun (Sarah) Kester with his grandson, Benjamin and granddaughter, Kira; AND his youngest son, Joseph Kester. He is also survived by his sister, Linda (Jerry) Brink; sister-in-law, Susan L. Kester; brother, Lynn (Shari) Kester; and sister, Kathy Beckwith; his sisters-in-law: Sue and Kristin and many loving nieces and nephews.