Lester Theodore Happel

Lester Theodore Happel, 89, entered heaven on Jan 2, 2026.  Visitation will be held Friday, January 9, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m., and Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00–10:45 a.m. The funeral service will be held Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., all at King of Kings Lutheran Church, 3275 N. Center Point Rd., Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

He was born September 5, 1936 near Atkins, Iowa and claimed by Christ in the waters of baptism at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Atkins, Iowa.  

He is survived by his wife, Alma Happel, of Cedar Rapids; daughter, Rachel Happel; son, Gregory (Andrea) Happel; grandsons, Martin, August, and Stefan Happel; nephews, Larry Happel, Joel (Susan) Happel, Charlie (Anne) Happel, Ron (Kris) Happel and Jamie (Amanda) Jorgensen; nieces, Jeanine Efflandt, Peggy (John) Badger, Barbara (Jamie) Badger, and Karen (Gary) McVicker, Janet (Dennis) Brown; and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Clara (Clausen) Happel; infant brother, George; sister, Elaine; brothers, Richard (Lois) Happel, Alfred (Norma) Happel, and Paul (Kathy) Happel; sister, Helen (Jim) Jorgensen; nephew, Keith Happel; and niece, Betty Happel.

He grew up in Latimer, Iowa and graduated from Latimer High School in 1954.  He worked in farming, construction, banking, and served in the US Army.  He studied business at UNI, and later worked in sales. He married Alma Happel on June 26, 1965, in Nerstrand, Minnesota after meeting through mutual friends and family members.  Lester and Alma made their home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  He retired from Cortez trucking in 2002.

Faith, Family, and Farming were always present in Lester’s life. Lester enjoyed time with family.  He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.  

He was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church for 38 years.  He served on the Board of Elders, Board of Trustees, Board of Education, and sang tenor in the Men’s Choir.  

For the last 23 years, he was a member of King of Kings Lutheran Church.  He trusted in Jesus as his Lord and Savior.  By faith we will meet again.

Memorials may be directed to King of Kings Lutheran Church and the Alzheimer’s Association in Lesters name. 

Online condolences can be left at www.teahenfuneralhome.com.