Marion “Pete” Dennis Nester of Elkton, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his beloved family, on June 3, 2024. Born on April 6, 1947, in Blacksburg, Virginia, he was the cherished son of the late Armstead and Esther (nee Linkous) Nester. Pete was the devoted husband to Barbara (nee Berry) Nester for 27 years.

Growing up on farms in rural Virginia and Western Maryland, Pete developed a profound love for the land and a remarkable ability to fix anything he set his hands on. A master welder by trade, he was a proud member of the Boilermakers Local 13 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, before establishing his own business, Nester’s Welding Inc.

In his younger years, Pete was an avid Fast Pitch Softball player and a star for the Pine Grove team. In 1977 he embraced his Christian faith and later accepted his call into the ministry. He served as the dedicated Pastor of Bohemia Manor Evangelical Christian Church in Chesapeake City for nine years. His faith and commitment to his congregation left an enduring mark on many lives.

Pete found solace and joy in the great outdoors. He relished hunting various game, crabbing, fishing, and vacationing in Chincoteague, VA with his family. After retirement he enjoyed spending the winters in Florida. Pete also enjoyed attending Bluegrass festivals up and down the east coast.

A man of unwavering community spirit, Pete was an active member of the Chesapeake City Ecumenical Association, where he embodied the Christian responsibility of “caring for your neighbor.” His service to the community was a testament to his generous and compassionate heart.

Above all, Pete was devoted to his family. His love and dedication knew no bounds, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Pete was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley Nester.

Pete is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Nester; son, James Berry; daughters, Denise Piemontese and her husband Mike, Karen McFadden, Sharon Johnson, Rhonda Truitt and her husband Shawn, Stephanie Beamer and Tony, and Geri Varell and her husband Bob; 17 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; brothers, Howard Nester and Ralph Nester; sisters, Nita Barben, Donna Wilson, and Sara Nesbitt; beloved friend Eugene Knowles whom he thought of as a son, as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

A celebration of Pete’s life will be held on Monday, June 10, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 450 Third Street, Chesapeake City, MD. The family will begin receiving friends at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow in Bethel Cemetery.

Pete’s legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:

Deep Roots, Inc,

21 Veazey Cove Road

Earleville, MD 21919