Obituary of Lester Altman

Lester W. Altmann, 89, Cincinnati fire captain Lester W. Altmann was good-natured and industrious - traits that endeared him to many people. "He was a large part of a lot of people's lives," said Mr. Altmann's daughter, Kaye H. Altmann Riser of Cincinnati. "His loss is like chopping down a big shade tree in the yard." Mr. Altmann, 89, of Florence, died Tuesday at Colonial Heights in Florence. His wife of 66 years, Helen K. Altmann, died four weeks ago. Mr. Altmann was a retired captain of the Cincinnati Fire Department. He was a firefighter from the late 1930s through the 1960s. He was a member of Asbury Methodist Church in New Port Richey, Fla., where he and his wife lived for a number of years after he retired. "He was always funny, he was always laughing," said his daughter. "He laughed right up until the end. He never complained. "He was always a really hard worker. He prided himself on taking care of his family." Mr. Altmann enjoyed woodworking, stained glass and remodeling homes. "He loved working with his hands," said his daughter. "He was very strong." Other survivors include a daughter, Donna L. Altmann Nickerson of Walton, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. There will be a gathering of friends from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday at Chambers & Grubbs Funeral Home in Florence, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, 340 W. 10th St., Newport, Ky., 41071.