Edmund Michael Lesko

Dr. Edmund Michael Lesko, 88, of Smith Mountain Lake and Roanoke, died peacefully on October 12, 2026. He was born August 6, 1938, in Binghamton, NY, the son of the late Clara Zayac and Michael F. Lesko. He retired from Roanoke Valley Anesthesia after a career of 35 years. He was a graduate of the University of Rochester and Northwestern University Medical School. He served in Viet Nam and Fort Hood, Texas, in the United States Army Medical Corps and was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Betty Hardt Lesko; daughter, Dr. Catherine Lesko Daniel (Dr. Charles); sons, Dr. John Michael and Richard (Anne Justis); grandchildren, Ann Ashley, Lauren Carson, Charles Raymond (Chase), Edmund Hardt, Douglas Crawford, James Darden, Henry Campbell, and Virginia DuVal. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Anne Cody of Williamsburg. He was predeceased by his brother, James Michael Lesko.

He was a member of the Roanoke Valley Medical Society, the Medical Society of Virginia, the Virginia Society of Anesthesiologists, the American Society of Anesthesiologists, and the Norfolk Southern Association of Physicians. He was a member of Second Presbyterian Church, the Shenandoah Club, Waterfront Country Club, and the Smith Mountain Lake Stripers Club. His great loves were his family, his farm, and hunting and fishing.

A celebration of Ed’s life will be held Monday, November 23, at 11 a.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, Roanoke. Memorial contributions may be sent to Second Presbyterian Church, Second Fund, 214 Mountain Ave., Roanoke, VA 24016, or a favorite charity.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Smith Mountain Lake, is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit www.tharpfuneralhome.com.