Frank S Jester

Olean - Frank S. Jester, 76, passed away on Sunday (Feb 26th, 2023) at home surrounded by his family, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Mr. Jester was born at St. Francis Hospital in Olean in October 1946. He graduated from Olean High School (Class of 1965), and then served in the US Navy as a Jet Aircraft Serviceman, in Meridian, MS during the Vietnam Era.

On May 31st, 1975 he married the love of his life, Glenda, who survives.

He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and Pulaski Club in Olean; a former member of the Olean Moose Club, several American Legions; and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan.

After owning and operating a custom motorcycle shop in the late 60’s, he worked in the automotive industry locally throughout his entire life, including many years as the service manager at Terry’s Automotive. He also taught auto body at BOCES for a number of years.

Frank was known throughout the region for his incredible talent for classic car building and restoration. He built or otherwise owned more than 500 hot rods, classics, and motorcycles over his lifetime. As such, with few exceptions, they all donned a “For Sale or Trade” sign, sometimes before the paint on the car, or ink on the registration, had time to dry. He also truly enjoyed vending at, and attending, flea markets all over the northeast with his friends. The relationships he made in the classic car community were very important to him.

In 1975, he and a small group of friends started the Street Masters Car Club, which he remained president of until his passing. For over 35 years, the car club held an annual car show at Gargoyle Park, which at its peak drew over 900 cars to the area, and received national magazine coverage. All proceeds from the club activities are donated to local charities and families in need, something he took great pride in.

Post-retirement, he very much enjoyed going for rides with Glenda in his roadster, attending cruise-nites, and car shows. He also enjoyed his morning coffee at McDonald’s with his friends.

Frank truly loved animals, particularly the family cats, and would go to great lengths to ensure all creatures were fed, sheltered, and cared for; and was a proud supporter of the SPCA.

Along with his wife of almost 50 years, Frank is survived by two sons Adam (Rachel Askey) Jester, and Rob (Emily Buck) Anastasia; two grandchildren, Tyler (Claudia) Anastasia, and Miranda (Buddy Davis) Anastasia; sister in law Joyce Dembowski, brothers in law John Skadowski & Victor Skadowski; nieces Ann (Phil) Terrano, and Deanna (Steve) Foster; nephews Charles Dembowski and Brian Dembowski; and grandnephews Christopher Dembowski, Matthew Hopkins, and Kyle Foster; along with a number of cousins.

Visitation will be held at Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 East State Street, Olean, on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, from 12pm to 2pm and 4pm to 6pm, with funeral services immediately following at 6pm in the funeral home. Rev. Dr. Anthony Evans will officiate. A private burial will be held at St. Bonaventure Cemetery with full military honors being accorded by the Allegany American Legion Ritual Team.

Memorials can be made to the SPCA in Cattaraugus County, 2944 NY-16, Olean, NY 14760. Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.