Obituary of Gary James Kester

On August 9th Jim Kester passed away in his Pleasanton home where he had lived for 59 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Florence Kester, his brother William Derby, his son Steven Kester and his loving wife of 55 years, Sandra Kester.

Jim will always be missed by his brother Dennis Kester, his children Melanie Calvert and Ken Kester and his grandchildren Keith Kester, Gary Kester, Scott Kester, Robert Lewis, Stephanie Lewis and Ryan Kester.

Jim grew up on the beaches and playgrounds of Alameda.  At Hayward High School he played trumpet in both the school band and the jazz band.  Thus began a lifelong love and appreciation of jazz, big bands and all musical genres.

With his partner, Larry Rogers, he opened and operated Larry’s Market in Alamo followed by a string of Dandy Dogs Restaurants in the Bay Area and Palm Springs.  At the Livermore Dandy Dogs, Jim cheerfully served the Livermore community until his retirement.  He was known as a man with integrity, honesty, and a wicked sense of humor.

In retirement Jim welcomed 11 great grandchildren into the Kester family, played lots of golf with his best friend Bob and enjoyed life with Sally.

A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, 11:30a.m. at the West Point Cemetery.