Michael "Mick" V. Kester

michael
Mick's livestream will be available below starting at 10:30 AM Saturday, December 19, 2020. https://vimeo.com/event/565089 On Monday, December 14, 2020 Michael (Mick) Vaughn Kester passed away peacefully at the age of 79 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo from Leukemia. By his side was his wife, Janice (Jan) Dianne LaCroix Kester and his children. Mick was born on August 9, 1941 to Ormal (Red) and Margery (Hunter) Kester of Dunseith North Dakota. He attended Dakota College in Bottineau, then graduated from Mayville State College with a Bachelor in Elementary Education in 1963. He later received his Master’s Degree from NDSU. Mick and Jan were born one day apart and met when they were 8 years old. They grew up together and had so many shared memories. They became high school sweethearts and were married December 29th, 1962. lt would have been their 58th wedding anniversary later this month. They raised three children, Todd, Troy, and Julie. In his youth, he worked on farms and helped his Dad who worked for Standard Oil to deliver gas. He had fond memories of milking cows, mostly because they gave him a horse for the summer as his wage. Later he helped his family during harvests. He just couldn't stay retired, so in his 70’s Mick began hauling sugar beets. He just loved to talk about farming and equipment and always enjoyed being part of farming. His first teaching and coaching position was in Esmond, ND. He wanted to pursue a Master’s Degree at NDSU, so he applied for a position at Agassiz Junior High School in Fargo, ND. He taught science for 21 years at Agassiz where he became known for "The Kester Test". He transferred to Centennial Elementary for the last 12 years. After 37 years of teaching he retired in May, 2000. He began a recycling program in school system. He also volunteered at Nativity Church as an usher and later at the Police Department. After retirement, he worked many part-time jobs, retired again, and purchased a lake cottage near Perham MN. He enjoyed his neighbors along the beach, margarita cruises on the pontoon, puttering in the yard and spending time with family and friends on Big Pine Lake. When in Fargo he liked meeting up with other retired teachers for socializing. Mick and Jan also enjoyed getting away from the cold winters and made the long drive to Mesa, AZ, then to Ft. Myers Florida. They truly cherished that time with friends and family. He is survived by his wife Janice; children Todd of Canandaigua NY, Troy (Kelli) of Minneapolis, MN, and Julie (Bill) Miller of Kansas City MO; Grandchildren Isabella Kester of Canandaigua, Ellen Kester and Jonah Kester of Minneapolis, Dana Miller of Denver CO, Bill (Joy) Miller of King of Prussia, PA, Corey Miller of Philadelphia PA; Great Grandchild Dalia of Philadelphia, PA; Sisters, Joanne Boucher of Rugby ND, Pennie (Gary) Grenier of Rollette, ND and Cheryl (Randy) Gaugler of Ft. Lauderdale FL along with cousins, nieces and nephews. Mick was preceded in death by his parents Ormal (Red) & Margery; In-laws Henry and Gladys LaCroix; brother-in-laws, Elmer Boucher and Jerry LaCroix; and grandaughter Alexandria Kester. On Saturday December 19th, 2020, a private service will be held. A Celebration of Life to follow later when it is safe to gather. Visit boulgerfuneralhome.com to sign the guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to Sanford Health Foundation for the Roger Maris Cancer Center and at Fargo Public Schools Development Foundation.

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  1. Jan and family:

    So sorry for your loss. I have lost touch with so many of the Agassiz family so I wasnt aware of any problems Mick might have been dealing with. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids as you remember all the good times that your family had with Mick.

    Jim Montgomery

  2. Sorry for your loss I enjoyed working alongside mick at Bwi for a few years while he was retired prayers to the family

  3. So sorry for your loss. So many memories of a wonderful man and a wonderful family. From the Clara Barton neighbors to Nativity Church and also having him for a teacher! Prayers to you all. May your memories bring you peace and comfort.

  4. Dave and I are both so saddened to hear of Mick’s passing. We will sure miss seeing him and will miss his big smile and his humor on life’s perspectives! Rest in peace Mick. Our love and prayers to you Jan, and all your family. Hugs.🤗
    Dave and Laurie Gress

  5. My prayers to the Kester family. I have many fond memories of Mr. Kester as a Clara Barton neighbor, my science teacher, and at church. I pray your wonderful memories bring you peace and comfort.

  6. Jan….I am so sorry. Mick was a great guy….Donovan used to look forward to visiting with him…my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
    Remember the good times!

  7. I am so, so sorry to hear this sad news. My heart breaks for you, Jan, and for your loved ones. Mick was a great guy.

  8. Dear Jan and family, I am sorry for your loss. Such a long relationship! So many, many good times for you and your family to talk about. I will wait to attend the celebration when we are safe from Covid. This makes it even more difficult for you . Thinking of you . Sharon R

  9. Dear Kester Family, my heart is heavy today learning of Mick’s passing. My deepest sympathies to the Kester family and your many many friends. You are all in my prayers and thoughts during this difficult time. God Bless.
    Your friend, Keith Johnson

  10. Troy,
    I was instantly saddened when the post of your Fathers Passing popped up on my screen. So many times over the years, the memories and conversations about the Huge Science Lab Class (50 or 60 kids) in a room that was Double the normal size, featuring your Dad, Mr. Kester and My Teacher, Mr. Olson. Those two really knew how to teach and to make learning interestingly entertaining. It was almost like a College Level atmosphere, with the occasional Catholic School type disceplanary action. It was common folk lore, the frightening rumors about being a freshman, 6th grader, at Agassiz Junior High, and having your Dad administer the Kester Test. I did get to witness the “Test” being administered to a fellow class mate. I had Science class for my first period home room and part of the Rumor of the Kester Test was that anything that felI out of the victims 3 ring binder had to be rewritten and turned in to your Dad by the end of the School Day. I sat across the table from Marty Sigmund and Mona Tedford. I remember the experience like it was Yesterday and it was 43 years ago. The instruction techniques by your Father and Mr. Olson with hands on lab experiences, constructing, The “Compound Pullies,” The ” “Calibrated Celcius Thermometer,” The various “Atom Molecules,” displayed in 3D artistic fashion and let’s not forget the “Matchbox Car Races” was an ingenious teaching technique for the 1970’s. Looking back on the Experience, It is safe to say your Father was in the Business of Teaching Young People the Wonders of the World of Science. Yes Sir, Inertia and Newton’s Law. God Speed to you and your Family Troy.
    Bob Hamilton

  11. Jan and family,
    I am so sorry for your loss. Mick was such a wonderful man and such a giving person. He meant so much to my father on Big Pine Lake. Jan, my prayers are with you in the days and months ahead.
    Much live,
    Nancy (Taylor) Lindroth

  12. Jan and Family,

    We have lost a true and beloved friend. Mick was a hard worker, quick to volunteer, and a source of joy to all who knew him. As teachers together at Agassiz in the 60s, we forged a friendship that would last a lifetime. Our times together as families were precious. To Jan, Todd, Troy, and Julie, and their families, we send our deepest sympathies. God bless…Mike and Sue

  13. Jan and family,
    My sympathies, always will remember Mick’s smile and laughter. A good man! May God give you strength during this difficult time!

  14. He will be missed. He was such a special person, with a smile that made you feel happy instantly. And such a great sense of humor!
    Like many others, he touched my life early on with the Kester Test, it taught us, at a very crucial part of our development, that the little things matter, taking time and care to pay attention to them, would help us in other areas of our life.
    I was blessed to spend some time with him as an adult, and enjoyed every minute.
    Our prayers for the family and we will miss you “Mr. Kester”!

  15. I taught with Mick for 6 years at Centennial Elementary. I was a rookie teacher in 1994 who had the honor of joining the “Mount Rushmore” of educators Kester, Freed, Harris, and Mowers on the 5th grade team. Mick was always welcoming to me, and I learned many great lessons from him that I still use to this day. My condolences to Jan (who sold Becky and me our current home), Kelli, Troy, and the whole Kester clan. God bless you all.

  16. So sorry for your loss. I first met Mick in January of 2018 while learning to play pickle ball at Rustad arena. Enjoyed playing both with and against him. will always remember him as a kind and nice man.

  17. Jan, Todd, Troy, and Julie,
    We are so sorry for your loss. We know the fond memories you have of your husband and father will be a comfort to you in the days and years to come. Please know that we are thinking of you all.

  18. Jan & Family, We are very sorry for your loss. We are sending love from Colorado. – Molly, Hannah and Andrew Bisbee

  19. I worked with Mick hauling sugar beets, we developed a quick friendship. I so enjoyed our time together and he loved his family, his students and Pine Lake.

    We will all feel the loss of Mick.

    Russ Olson

  20. Jan and family,
    We are so sorry to hear about Mick. He was always a ray of sunshine seeing him outside at the condo. Jan also was my realtor of my first house I sold 12th Ave. N. It was nice visiting with Jan a few weeks ago when we stopped by my Mom’s with our dog Ollie. Our thoughts and prayers to Jan and the entire family.

  21. Dear Jan and family
    What a sad day this is. I”m sorry not To have visited with Mic earlier. Did”t realize his time was so short, We had some great times together. Our years at Agassiz and Centennial are treasures. He will be missed by all who new him. Roger and Mary Lipp

  22. Jan, Todd, Troy and Julie,

    Words fail me, I am so saddened by this news.

    Growing up next door, many of my memories (even my earliest preschool memories) include Todd and Troy (and later Julie). In a very real sense you are all my family, Jan a second Mom, Mick a second Dad (and Teacher), the kids my Brothers and Sister.

    At the time it doesn’t dawn on you how lucky you are, it just feels normal to have an extended family next door, as we wore out a path between our homes. The Kester family was so welcoming and caring it could not have been otherwise, and it was a good part of a happy childhood. Even as the decades pass and we have moved from 5th street, I am a better person for having you all in my life.

    My heart goes out to you all. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and will remember all the good times.

    Shawn

  23. Jan and family
    I am so sorry for your loss. Mick was a wonderful man and a great teacher. I enjoyed all the years I worked with him at Centennial. I was welcomed into the fifth grade team from the very first day there.
    I remember with fondness all the lunches Margaret, Arlis, and I had in Mick’s room. I especially remember our Friday outings. The only place close by then was Stop-n-Go (Casey’s). Every Friday Margaret would drive and we would all get chicken strips to eat there!
    He will be missed! Thoughts and prayers to you all.

  24. Jan and Family – I am so sorry to hear of Mick’s passing. Can’t count how many times he has helped me at the lake!! We all will miss him. God be with you and this time and forever. Hugs, Gan

  25. Jan and Family,
    Back in the days at Agassiz Mick was a member of the science department that loved to have fun, but more importantly, loved to make a difference for their students both in and out of the classroom. Mick was a part of that cast of characters! Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and for Mick. May he rest in peace.

  26. to Mick’s family: I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Mick on many projects as a volunteer with the Fargo Police Dept. We accomplished our tasks but we also had fun! He was a great guy.

  27. My sincere condolences to the entire Kester family from a Clara Barton and Agassiz student, former Nativity family member, (and friend of Kelli). May you find peace and comfort in your memories and feel the love from friends surrounding you. God bless you all and bring you peace.

  28. My husband and I both had Mr. Kester As a teacher at Agassiz. We are both educators now and appreciate his example of what it meant to be good in his field!

  29. Jan, Todd, Troy and Julie,
    I’m so sorry to hear about Mick. When I think of him I remember his good sense of humor, big smile and great laugh. I hope the memories of him that you each carry in your heart will help ease your sorrow in the coming weeks and months. You’re all in my thoughts.

  30. Dear Jan and family. So sorry to read about Mick’s passing. My sympathy to you and yours. God be with you all. Char (Olgard) Wixo

  31. Kester family – I’m so sorry to hear of Mr. Kester’s passing. He was my 6th grade teacher at Centennial the first year it opened and he made the year memorable. He taught lessons that I still remember today. He really was one of the best teachers!

  32. As I remember my neighbor Mick on Elm Street, I am so thankful I was so fortunate. Was Mick creative, caring, appreciated, hard working, an expert at solving problems here at our condo units? Yes, he was. A great friend with compassion along with a great sense of humor. With my deepest sympathy to you, Jan as well as your family.

  33. We were privileged to know Mike as our friend and colleague while teaching at Agassiz. I spent many days working alongside Mike in the science department. I learned to appreciate his keen sense of organization and attention to detail. Mike was so willing to share in his experiences like growing up in Dunseith or working at various jobs.Jan, may you and your family find comfort in knowing how many lives were made better by having Mike as a teacher and friend. Ken and Frieda Bentz

  34. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember him well, I remember that science department on the top floor of Agassiz I had him for a teacher and I think it was Mr. Motl that worked up there too

  35. So very sorry about your loss and the loss of such a wonderful person, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. Our thoughts are with each of you at this most difficult time.

  36. Jan, Julie, Bill and Kester family, my sincerest condolences. Mick was such an amazing and awesome man. No one could explain the “lore of the Loon” better than he. Virtual hugs from Kansas City. May he rest in everlasting peace.

    Mary

  37. Dear Kester Family…

    Sending you thoughts and prayers to you all during this difficult time! Share Mick’s wonderful life by celebrating his life the many stories to share!!
    Deepest sympathy…God Bless you and watch over you all!

  38. Jan and Charlotte

    I am sorry to hear of the passing of Mick. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

    Clay Whittlesey

  39. Mr. Kester was my 5th grade teacher at Centennial in the late 90s. I remember being anxious when I learned he’d be my teacher (rumors that he was so tough!) But he quickly became my favorite teacher and the one I remember the best through all my schooling. He was tough but kind. He was a great authority figure who taught life lessons. I remember he would give books to anyone interested- I still have at least one with his name inside. He was also my mother’s teacher! We went to Nativity too, and it was fun to catch up as adults. May God welcome him home to Heaven and may God bless and comfort Mick’s family. -Elizabeth (Durben) Kochmann

  40. What I remember most about Mick is his laugh. I can still hear it. I was just a kid when I knew him most, one of the Cosgrove/Bushard/Kester clan that had rockin’ parties in the ’70s down in the coolest basement ever at the Kester house. I remember the dart board, the bar, the adults standing around and Mick’s laugh. But, alas, Mick also became known to me as “Mr. Kester,” my science teacher at Agassiz. As a tween, I found this somewhat fine and somewhat embarrassing. I figured maybe he’d go a little easier on me since we were social buddies. True, I didn’t get The Kester Test. I think because he knew my mom so well he figured I, too, was super organized so he wouldn’t be able to send my binder papers flying around the room. But I do remember being called on when he could just as easily have called on someone else. Here’s the thing, though. You can’t imagine the total awkwardness I felt having to sit through Mr. Kester’s “sex ed” lectures. Horror of horrors. By then I had already spent so much time around the Kesters it was like having my *dad* talk to me about sex. Totally embarrassing! I was glad to say goodbye to that class and go back to being just another one of the clan hanging around the Kester house. Big hugs to you all.

  41. My deepest sympathies to the entire Kester family. Mick did volunteer work for me at the police department for several years. He was such a wonderful man, always a pleasure to work and visit with. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.

  42. Jan and Family, I am sorry to hear about Mick’s passing. I met Mick at Mayville State and our paths crossed a few times over the years, I always enjoyed our conversations. Don Vellenga

  43. We are so sad to learn of Mick’s passing. He was always so much fun. We got to know him after he retired, so it was neat to read stories on here about his teaching days. Soon after we met he was collecting bottle caps for our son Ben’s bottle cap snakes, (which we still have:) Our son, Sam, had so much fun at their lake cabin with his cousin Sawyer and Mick’s grandson Jonah, for a few summers. I can see Mick speeding on his jet ski pulling the boys behind him while they hung on for dear life. They learned many life lessons on the lake.
    We will miss him. Our love to Jan and Troy, Kelli, Jonah and Ellen.

  44. Sorry to hear of your loss ,Janice and family. It was always nice to visit with both of you when you came back. Prayers.

  45. Julie and family – sincerest condolences on your loss. Please know that you’re in my thoughts and prayers. Let the comfort of friends and family members provide some comfort. Peace be with you all.
    Anne

  46. Jan, Troy, Julie, and Todd,

    Mick was a teacher in every sense of the word. He was generous and kind, inspired those who knew him to be better people, and earned our unfailing admiration, affection, and respect. When I became a teacher, his advice to me was, “Don’t let the inmates take over the asylum,” and “Don’t smile at your students until after Christmas.” I am so sorry for your loss, but I know that the best of him lives on in his children, and in those of us who are better for having known him. My thoughts are with you today, and always.

  47. Kester family,
    So sorry that our dear friend Mick has passed away. We have so many fun memories of spending time with Mick and Jan at Good Life in Mesa. I loved his big smile and his infectious laugh.
    He loved teaching and our sons were both fortunate to have had him as a science teacher.
    He will be so missed by Jan, the Kester family, his siblings and countless number of friends.
    We must keep his spirit alive.

  48. Jan. So sad for your loss. My children and Lesley”s children enjoyed him as a teacher. Especially the Kester Tester for notebooks. My prayers are with you.

  49. What a beautiful service. So many great stories shared by friends and family I have great memories of Mick at the lake. He was always busy and willing to help out with any projects or events that were happening. Even most recently when the guys were taking the stuff out of the lake. Mick was right there helping out and participating. Mick will be greatly missed but always remembered! DSending love and friendship.

  50. Jan and Family,
    I was able to attend Mick’s service on line. What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful Man. The stories made me love him all the more. What a generous, kind, and fun person he was!
    Blessings over each of you as you carry on his legacy without his presence, but in his love.
    Virtual hugs!
    Nancy Lindroth

  51. Jan,

    Did not hear of Mick’s death until a few days ago. Though I haven’t seen much of Mick in the last few years I often think about him and the Agassiz Science Department crew. What a great group to work with. I have so many memories of Kester, Olson, and Benz and how they worked together. Lots of stories about working with 60 6th graders in one room.

  52. Well done, good and faithful servant. You brought joy to so many…..and enjoyed all the days
    given to you. What a blessing you were to all of us….I loved the words shared today…..you will
    be well remembered. S

  53. Dearest Neighbors…I am so saddened by the passing of Mick, I can not even try to understand how your hearts are hurting, I pray all the wonderful memories you and others share will soften the ache! So many memories of sharing time with your family, all the signs in the window, all the playing we did…,we had a great neighborhood to grow up in! Jenny I were visiting and sharing our memories… She said “what about the Tasty Freeze??? All of us have our own memories to smile on!! My sincerest condolences Jan, Todd, Troy, Julie, and your families…much love…kris

  54. Jan and family,

    We share in the sadness of your loss. Mick was always good to us at the lake and he will be missed.

    Jack, Tracey & Jordan McLagan

  55. Jan and family, All of our family was saddened to hear of your loss. We have so many memories of you and Mick and all the times we gathered as families at your home in South Fargo. MIck’s sense of humor and smile will always be remembered. We pray for you during this difficult time and look forward to the time when we can gather again to celebrate Mick’s life. May God comfort you.
    Sharon and Al

  56. prayers for you Julie and your brothers and family. it was nice meeting Mick in Antiga. He was a calming presence and was always ready to laugh is what i remember the most.

  57. Jan and Family,
    We are sad to hear of Mick’s passing. We enjoyed our times together when you were here in Florida. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
    Gary and Carol Clark ❤🙏

  58. I was one of his pupils in his very first class in Esmond, ND. It is true from the very start, he was stern but kind, and we yearned to hear him laugh. He was my most favorite teacher ever. May Mr. Kester rest in peace.

  59. Dearest Jan and family,
    We are all so saddened to hear about Mick’s passing, Reading through all of the wonderful heartfelt comments is truly a testament to what a kind and giving person he was. Our love and prayers to you all.

  60. So sorry for your loss. Mr.Kester was my 8th grade teacher. He was tough but I have fond memories of him.

  61. Jan and family. I have such fond memories of Agassiz days with Mick. I sure miss his quick laugh and great sense of humor. He was a great man with a big heart. I occasionally saw Mick playing pickleball-still smiling.
    We send our prayers and deepest sympathies to a great family. God Bless you all.

  62. Dear former students & colleagues
    of Mr. Kester
    My family and I want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the stories and tributes written on Boulger Funeral Home’s guest book. It lifted our spirits and got us through a hard day of saying goodbye and focus more on celebrating his life. Mick would have been so surprised, pleased and humbled by your memories of him after all these years. It’s difficult to find the words to tell you how comforting and happy you made us. God bless you all. Fondly, Jan

  63. Mr. Kester was my 5th grade teacher at Centennial back in ‘95. I will never forget all of his life lessons! Prayers to his family, I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great man!

  64. Jan, Todd, Troy, Julie and all of the Kester Family:
    Sorry for your loss. While I never experienced Mick and a teacher, I know that he did a wonderful job for his students in Fargo. I enjoyed getting to know him a bit over the years. He was a kind man with a good sense of humor and clearly, loved his family. I hope you are all well. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
    Vic Youngs

  65. Janice and family.
    So sorry to hear of Mick’s passing, we didn’t know he was ill. May your memories help you through this difficult time.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  66. Mick was my daughter Dawn’s fifth grade teacher at Centennial, and it was a good year for her before her less personal junior high. May his family know he made a nice difference to so many kids.

  67. Dear Jan and family, I’m so grateful for having had Mick as a friend. I enjoyed the times I was around him, and very much enjoyed his company and conversation. I knew him as a wonderful, thoughtful, and generous man, and I will miss him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

    Tim (with Rhonda, Megan, and Eric)

  68. Jan and family, Mr Kester was one of the best teachers at Agassiz. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Matt and sharon wolf

  69. Mick was a good friend and great brother-in-law to me. It takes me time to process losing people, especially ones I love. I’ve lost 2 brothers-in-law just this year–tough year. Mick was always ready to help in any situation, and would gladly give you whatever was needed to carry on. I will miss him a lot. I have great memories of sitting on the deck at the lake cabin, having a cigar, a beer, and reminiscing of years long past. My memory isn’t the greatest, but I remember I was welcomed into the Kester home as Jan’s sister Paulette’s boyfriend in 1969 or 70. Mick and Jan even had our wedding reception, which was small, at their home. I remember it very well. Jan was pregnant with Julie and Jules was born 5 days later. I wish we could have been there for the funeral ceremony last Saturday, but at least we got to livestream it. Paulette and I hope to travel to Fargo in 2021 as soon as it’s safe to go. The last time I saw Mick was when he and Jan visited our son’s home in North Carolina a couple of years ago and the three of us built a large shed to store firewood. It was a fun few days. I will miss you MIck.

  70. Jan we were so surprised to find out just today that Mick passed away. We’re so very very sorry for your loss. We will be offering many prayers and thoughts for you and Mick and the family. Love you, we’ll talk soon. Jack and marcene

  71. I am just seeing this and I am sorry to hear of his illness and passing. I especially liked his passion for recycling and teaching even though he came to our class for brief moments such as science experiments and environmental instruction. We all feared him at Centennial only because of rumors. When he came to teach we all realized the rumors were false of course and that he was a great man. In a little bit of positivity, I have enjoyed reading all the posts from his fellow teachers on here and hearing about the Stop and Go Friday food runs. I wish you would have brought us some! Thank you to the Kester Family for sharing him with us students

  72. So very sorry to hear of Mick’s passing. Such a nice man and I knew him (and you Janice) all my life. Sincere condolences. I remember being at your home and Mick proudly showing me pictures of his family. So sorry to hear about Elmer too. Elmer and Gordie were good friends. I too hope and pray for a better year in 2021. Love to all of you!!


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