Howard E. Lester Jr.

Howard E. Lester Jr., a decorated retired Air Force master sergeant who grew up in East Hampton, died in Portsmouth, N.H., on Saturday. He was 75.

A funeral was to be held today at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Sag Harbor at 10:30 a.m., with burial to follow at St. Andrew’s Cemetery.

In the Air Force, Mr. Lester worked in financial management and accounting, from December 1961 to November 1985. His family said he received many medals and commendations. After that he worked at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard until 2005.

Born on April 7, 1941, in Phillipsburg, N.J., his parents were Howard E. Lester and the former Barbara P. Remkus. He graduated from East Hampton High School.

He is survived by his sisters, Margaret Lucyk of Sag Harbor and Sandra Dahl of Michigan. Another sister, Patricia Wynkoop, and his brother, Peter Lester, died before him.

  His family has suggested donations to the American Legion, 96 Islington Street, Portsmouth, N.H., 03801.