Lester Edward McNeill

Lester Edward McNeill, 100, formerly of West Reading and Temple, died March 29, 2026, at Berks Leisure Living, Bern Township, where had been a resident for the past 10 years and was cared for by their wonderful staff.

He was the widower of Pauline Mary (Shenk) McNeill who died in 2018.  They had shared 72 years of marriage.

Born November 23, 1925, in Muhlenberg Township, he was the son of the late George and Emily (Werner) McNeill.

Lester served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

He was employed as an auto parts sales representative for over 40 years with various local dealerships, retiring from Dames Chevrolet, Pottstown, in 1996.

Lester was a member of Berkshire Heights Fire Company for over 60 years.

He enjoyed buying and rebuilding bicycles, which he donated to the Salvation Army.  He was nicknamed the “Irish Peddler.”  Lester enjoyed selling items as local flea markets alongside his wife. 

An avid racing fan, he loved watching NASCAR and World of Outlaws and attending races at the Reading Fairgrounds.

Surviving is his son, Barry L. McNeill, husband of Diane (Matz) of Laureldale.

In addition, he is survived by his two grandchildren: Christopher J. McNeill, husband of Barb and Jodi (McNeill) Miller, wife of Joe; his six great grandchildren: Jeffrey McNeill, Courtney Capps, Michael, Madison, Ava, and Emily Miller; and his two great-great grandchildren, Clara and Hayden Capps.

Lester was preceded in death by his stepbrother, Carlton McNeill, and by his stepsisters, Shirley (McNeill) Bailey and Joan (McNeill) Shoma.

Services will be held Monday, April 6th at 11 a.m. at Stitzel Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale.  A viewing will be held from 10-11 a.m.  Burial will be at Laureldale Cemetery, Muhlenberg Township.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Susan G. Komen Foundation, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380 and/or Alzheimer’s Research, 620 Sea Island Road, Suite 324, St. Simons Island, GA 31522.

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