We were talking about you and Marty the other evening--how he loved his PA sports teams and how he always had informed and astute commentary on the politics and news of the day. He could become quite "wound up." Another reason to love him. In a world where everyone may seem to be out for him or herself, Marty never was. He was always interested and interesting. I still recall some of his life stories, especially from his childhood and teen years. We miss him and always will. I never heard of anyone who didn't have a positive opinion about him. In fact, when anyone would ask others if they knew Marty Kester, they would always have a smile on their faces as they replied and nodded. To be thought of in that way by so many people is a testament to who he was.
Take care Joan. We're behind you.

We have vivid memories of Marty as an affable and friendly person. As people who like to read we appreciated his tastes in books and benefitted from reading some of his hand-me-downs. Thank you, Joan, for setting up this reminder of Marty and giving us time to remember.

We have so many wonderful memories of Marty from boating, fishing and fun family gatherings. As a family, we were all so blessed to have him as a part of our lives. He always had a bright smile on his face and enjoyed all our crazy get-togethers. We all enjoyed hearing his fishing stories, as we all know, he loved the sport!! I can just see Marty in Heaven fishing and having a blast!! Thank you, Marty, for being part of our lives - what a treasured memory from a wonderful man.

I can still see and hear Marty at a crab cookout at Snodgrass's one summer evening. Marty started acting silly (no surprise!) and used Karate chops to break the crab shells. Every time he did this, he'd holler "I yah!" I'm still surprised the neighbors didn't report us to the police for making too much noise. When a gang of us would go out dancing in the evening, Marty and I often danced together; he was a very good dancer. I wasn't so great, but that didn't make any difference to us. We enjoyed ourselves anyway. We had many, many good times back in the 'olden' days, and I cherish those memories of Marty.

I will always be grateful to Marty for his leadership during the very earliest formation of the Berks County Transition Coordinating Council (BCTCC). There was a lot of passionate energy that was going in all directions - and Marty helped us all direct that energy to set common goals and work toward them. Most importantly - his wonderful heart and wit helped us develop genuine relationships - that continue over the decades to this day. I especially remember Marty - beloved by youth - at every state transition conference. Marty's laugh and goodwill embraced all.