The Chi-Lites Then (Lester pictured far left)
Chicago Sun-Times
Robert “Squirrel” Lester was a troubadour of slow dances and long kisses whose fans told him he was partly responsible for the births of their children.
The silky-voiced singer with the internationally renowned Chicago vocal group the Chi-Lites died Thursday of cancer at Roseland Hospital. He was 67.
He was born in McComb, Miss., where his tree-climbing ability earned him the nickname “Squirrel.” He went on to attend Hyde Park High School in Chicago.
“He’s one of the prettiest tenors we have seen in the world,” said Chi-Lites leader Marshall Thompson, who announced his passing. He performed with Mr. Lester more than 50 years.
The Chi-Lies Now (Lester pictured far right)
The Obituary continues here.
When I saw the Chi-Lites perform on a recent PBS oldies special, watching Mr. Lester brought me to tears. He bears a strong resemblance to my late Father and the combination of the music and seeing the group perform was somewhat overwhelming.
Thank you so very, very much for being part of my formative years Mr. Lester. May you rest in peace.
My condolences to the family and Chi-Lite fans everywhere.
Related posts:
- "Love Letters" – Performed by Ketty Lester (1962)
- Snooks Eaglin, R&B Singer and Guitarist, Dies at 72
- Singer, Actress Eartha Kitt Dies
- Influential guitarist, singer Alex Chilton dies
- R&B singer and Harvey-native John E. Carter dead at 75
Filed under: Transitions
