Our wonderful, cherished Jim left us on June 9, 2025, at the age of 78. His presence is sorely missed and has left a hole that cannot be filled.

Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Ohio, Jim entered the Air Force after high school and served in Vietnam. Following the service, he enrolled in college, eventually earning a Master's Degree in Industrial Engineering. He married his wife Nancy in 1972, and the family moved to Florida in 1979 for an opportunity to work at the (former) Occidental Chemical Company.

After 8 years as an electrical engineer, Jim decided to give the franchise world a try, choosing SUBWAY restaurants. He excelled at dealing with the challenges of entrepreneurship, and opened and operated 8 restaurants. He retired from SUBWAY in 2000.

But never fully retiring, Jim worked in real estate and maintained other business interests. He truly loved being a Floridian. Fishing the flats from Horseshoe Beach to Suwannee, quite often with his "skipper" and wife, Nancy, filled much of his free time. WWII history and the music of Frank Sinatra were other major interests. However, having all 3 beloved adult children together was his greatest desire and enjoyment.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Josephine Lestock; brother Edward; and sister, Dorothy Beale. Survivors include wife, Nancy; daughter Katherine Blanchard and her husband, Glen; son, Michael Lestock; daughter Melissa Lestock; 4 sisters: Joan Wohlgemuth and her husband, Randy; Ruth Manzi and her husband, Frank; Lois Lestock; and Susan Prokop; and multiple nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will celebrate Jim's life on June 21st at 11 a.m. at Epiphany Catholic Church in Lake City, FL, reception following. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Shriners Hospitals for Children or the Wounded Warriors Project. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.