Esther Mae (Blanchard) Hicks, age 87, of rural Grand Marsh passed away at home, surrounded by her children, on March 1, 2020.
She was born on May 25, 1932, in upper Michigan to Ken and Caroline (Curtis) Blanchard and grew up in Wisconsin Rapids. On July 8, 1950, she married Roy W. Hicks. Esther was a homemaker and also worked in the community as a restaurant manager, fabulous cook and baker, nursing assistant, and her favorite position for many years as the cook for Head Start. She was a member of the United Church of Christ, Grand Marsh and Grand Marsh Harmony Homemakers Club for many years.
Esther had a gentle nature and loved people, especially children. She enjoyed her family, pets, gardening, travel, nature, and rummage sales. She had an adventurous spirit.
She is survived by her son, Roy J. and four daughters, Kay (Dwane) Braken, Peggy (Norman) Burgette, Sandra (Ron) Breth, and Joan (Jim) Etchberger. Twelve grandchildren, twenty-nine great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. Two sisters, Agnes Schroeder and Barb Quinnell, one brother Jerry (Diane), and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Roy; son, Fred; parents; sister, Margaret Kobishop; and brothers, John and Howard.
A memorial service will be held at Roseberry’s Funeral Home with Pastor Janet Ruark officiating on Saturday, March 7th at 11:00 a.m. with gathering of family and friends starting at 9:30 a.m.
The family would like to gratefully acknowledge the Agrace Hospice Care team for their professionalism, compassion, and many kindnesses. In lieu of flowers, memorial giving can be made to Agrace Hospice & Palliative Care, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711 or online at (agrace.org/donate).
Esther Mae (Blanchard) Hicks
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I knew Esther through the Grand Marsh Church and being a member of the “Shadow Sisters”. She was a very nice lady and always had a smile. So sorry for your loss!
Love this dear lady! She will be remembered for her loving wisdom and care. And all the time spent in her hospitality, in her kitchen, at her table, guest room and yard camp outs. Good memories every one!
Aunt Esther will be missed by all
So sorry for your loss. She always had a smile.
I am sorry for your loss. Thinking of you Roy. Esther taught me how to bake from scratch, cook on the line. Every time I break an egg and a shell ends up in the bowl I think of being 13 years old (41 years ago) as she taught me what to do to easily get it out. She taught me so much about the kitchen, prepping, making donuts and pies by scratch and of course infused with great life lessons when I worked at Mister Burger. Peace, love and light.
Our deepest condolences. Grandma Esther as everyone including my kids called her will be greatly missed..The 400 Cafe and farm will always live in my heart and memories.
Ester’s Family,
We had’t seen Ester out in the last several years. Always ran into her in the grocery store. What a happy & bubbly soul. I enjoyed our talks. She was such a hard worker & very kind. R.I.P. Ester. Blessing to the Families.
So sorry for your loss!!!
I know Esther for many many years and I have great memories and she will be greatly missed but never forgotten
So sorry for your loss. Ms. Esther had been an extended member of our family for years. I will always remember her quick wit, easy smile, her cooking and most of all the way she made a person feel like they were loved. Think I’ll miss her hugs the most.
To Esther’s family I am sorry to hear of her passing and wish you great memories. I am happy to say I have many growing up and feel blessed to have known her. Rest in peace sweet woman.
I can’t be there in person but my heart is with you all. Everyone i know has heard stories of my Aunt Esther. I have so many great memory’s at the farm. And that gigantic stove that she made the best food at. And when I got yelled at by my mom at our many family gatherings, she would give me squeeze and with a chuckle tell me I was a great kid. I will miss her. Thank you Aunt Esther for being you.
Esther was always a kind and gentle soul with a big heart. Esther made a difference for many children and families in the community.❣ My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful person, that touched many lives. She will be greatly missed.
So sorry for your families loss.
Our thoughts and prayers go our to your family. Philip and Nancy Galanti!!!
Our deepest sympathy are with you all.
She was an amazing lady, her positive energy was contagious. She will be missed dearly.
So sorry for your loss. So many good memories, at head start and at church.
She always had great stories !! Prayers to all of you.
So sorry. She was a great mother who checked on her son in school regularly. Roy, call if you need any help, I’m nearby. I always thought you were awesome. Prayers with family! 7153252357
I’m so sorry for the of your mother. Your mom was a caring, wonderful person. Sincere & Deepest Sympathy to the whole family.
So sorry for your loss.. I have many fond memories Of Esther.. she will be greatly missed. Hugs and prayers to all of you during this difficult time!
So sorry for your loss
In our thoughts and prayers
We are so very sorry for the loss of your mother. She was such a wonderful, caring person. Our Deepest Sympathy to all the family.
Karl and Toni Boettcher
Im so sorry for your loss she will be miss she was a great women i rember her at head start my prayers are with the family