Lester “Les” A. Svoboda

Lester “Les” A. Svoboda, 83, Green Bay, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. He was born on September 9, 1942, in Casco to the late Maynard and Pearl (Pagel) Svoboda. Les attended Casco High School and graduated with the class of 1960.

In December of 1963, Les purchased Birchwood Beer Gardens in Kewaunee. This purchase would begin a dedication of over 50 years in the food, beverage and hospitality business. During these years he owned and operated Les’ Country Gardens in East Krok, in Kewaunee County, Peppermill Bar and Grill in Green Bay, Les’ Steak Joynt in Kewaunee and Apple Jack’s in Marinette. During his time in business he sponsored numerous softball teams and community events. Les became the go to for families and organizations to host banquets, such as Ducks Unlimited, weddings, Mother’s Day brunches and any event large or small.

As a lifelong business owner, Les built more than just businesses; he created places where people felt at home. Over the years, he employed and mentored countless individuals forming lasting relationships and leaving a meaningful impact on so many lives.

During his younger years, Les competed in the local dirt track racing circuit. He enjoyed going fishing, especially for perch on Washington Island with his good friend, George Van Boxel. Les also liked to go hunting up north with family and friends. He was an avid bowler and participated in many leagues over the years at the Golden Bowl.   Les was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Order of Foresters.

Les had a big heart with an even bigger personality. He rarely met anybody who didn’t become a friend. Les was also an extremely generous person and found great joy in helping others. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and friend.

He is survived by his children, Steve (fiancée, Heidi Gronke) Svoboda, Rick (Alexandra Ratajczak) Svoboda and Jeff (Deana) Svoboda; grandchildren, Hunter, Brody and Zane Svoboda; brothers, Wayne (Diane) Svoboda and Randy Svoboda; sisters, Elizabeth Zellner, Faye (Len) Conard, Jeanne Sager, Darlene (Jim) Legois, Laura Svoboda Robinson and Sheila (Dan) Vincent; sister-in-law, Joann Svoboda; former spouse, Mary Svoboda; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Gail (Larry) Hanko; brother, Maynard “Butch” Svoboda, Jr.; brothers-in-law, Roger Sager and Ralph Zellner.

Visitation will be held at the Proko-Wall Funeral Home, 1630 E. Mason St., on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Parish wake service 6:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 3425 Willow Rd., from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m. Monday at the church with Rev. Bill Hoffman officiating. Online condolences may be expressed at www.prokowall.com.

In lieu of floral expressions, a memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Steve, Wayne, Darlene, Jim and countless others for their care which allowed Les to pass away peacefully at his beloved home.