Celester Sylvester Fox
Celester “Les” Sylvester Fox, 96, of Vermontville, Michigan, passed away peacefully, October 17, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, living a life marked by integrity, hard work, and love for his family and community. The legacy he left is one of quiet dedication and steadfast love, and his touch and ways will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
Born on September 14, 1929, in Westphalia, Michigan, he was the son of Joseph and Ida (Spitzley) Fox. He graduated from Pewamo High School, developing a lifelong enthusiasm for sports; a passion he would carry throughout his lifetime.
Les proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged, continuing his commitment to service as a proud member of the American Legion in Vermontville, Michigan. When he returned from the service he married the love of his life, Virginia on October 1, 1955. Together they built a strong and loving family, and took immense joy in watching their children and grandchildren grow and excel in their various activities, especially in sports. His life revolved around the things that mattered most; faith, family, friendship, and honest work.
A successful and respected grain elevator operator/inspector, Les was known for his tireless work ethic, fairness, and unwavering honesty. Outside of work, he was an avid sports fan and enjoyed playing cards, golf, baseball, and basketball. He found joy in both the games and the camaraderie they brought. Those who knew Les will remember him as a kind-hearted, dependable, and humble man; a good friend to many and a source of strength and support to his family.
Les is survived by his wife, Virginia; children, Michael (Kim) Fox, Rebecca (Kirk) Richmond, and Donald (Lori) Fox; grandchildren, Courtney (Tom) Farmer, Jason (Caitie) Fox, Tristen (Kelsey) Fox, Andrew (Tia Schutte) Fox, Paige (Jeffrey) Feldausch, Jordan (Ty) Hisler; great-grandchildren, Will and Eve Farmer, Olivia and Nathan Fox, Preslee Feldpausch, Chase Fox, and Waylon Huntley Hisler; siblings, Richard (Cheryl) Fox and Ambrose (Kathy) Fox. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Victoria Lynn Fox; siblings, William (Jarene) Fox, Stanley (Therse) Fox, Carl (Carol) Fox, Betty (Herm) Schneider, Deloris (Don) Maidlow, Mark Fox.
Friends are encouraged to support Les’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Les’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services, or the American Cancer Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.