I started-up synaptic after install and did a reload, mark upgrades and apply. A number of items then downloaded and updated.
I installed Thunderbird, Gambas, Geda and Qcad, not all at same time, but sequentially as I couldn't recall all of what I wanted. Forgot to check for desktop existence between installs as I wasn't expecting an issue.
And thanks for helping me find the magic launcher maker. What was the 'locker chant in MIB? "All hail 'K"!"?
I have already tried re-installing pcmanfm, openbox and lxdecc. User#2 still seems to have a desktop and a working pcmanfm, user#1 don't.