Thursday, October 1, 2026
Lester M. “Les” Alberthal Jr. died Aug. 25, 2026, at the age of 82.
Les was born in Corpus Christi and raised in Comfort, Texas. While working a summer job in La Crosse, Wisconsin, he met Karen Bakkum, and they married in 1966.
In 1968, Les graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a BBA in business administration and joined Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in Dallas. He dedicated the next 30 years to the company, culminating in his tenure as president, CEO and chairman of the board (1986-1998).
After retiring in 1998, Les returned to his country roots at Buzzard Hollow Ranch in Granbury, Texas, where he raised registered Simmental cattle. Though he later faced Alzheimer’s disease, Les’ steadfast loyalty and love for his family, his friends, and the ranch remained strong.
Les is preceded in death by his parents, Ethel and Lester M. Alberthal Sr.; his brother, Kenneth Alberthal; and his half-brother, Norman Murphy.
Les is survived by his wife, Karen Alberthal; his daughter, Kari Bishop, and her husband, Tom; his daughter, Kelly Alberthal; and his son, Brian Alberthal.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Alz.org - Lester M. Alberthal, Jr..
The Celebration of Life will be held Sept. 26, 2026, at the Wiley Center located at 420 East US Hwy 377, Granbury, TX 76048. For more details, please visit Wiley Center - Lester M. Alberthal, Jr.
