Esther Christensen

CHRISTENSEN, Esther
Kalamazoo Esther Christensen passed away peacefully on October 3, 2012 at the age of ninety-nine. Esther, the daughter of Danish immigrants Carl and Kathrine Andersen, was born May 23, 1913 in Glasgow, Montana, the eldest of three children. She graduated as salutatorian from Glasgow High School in 1931 and attended Northern Montana College. She married Carl C. Christensen on April 5, 1941. They had been Kalamazoo area residents since 1949. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Carl, and her brother William. She is survived by her sister, Anna Gailard, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, three children, Carl R. Christensen, Karen S. Christensen, Ingrid A. Lester Williams, seven grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and six nephews. Esther is remembered for her positive outlook and zest for life. She loved the world in many ways, and showed her passion for preserving the environment by educating herself and encouraging others to care about the earth as she did. She was a pioneer in recycling before most people had heard of that term. She was a Master Gardener, Master Flower Show Judge, honorably retired, and past president of both Western Hills Garden Club and Kalamazoo Garden Council. She held several state posts with the Federated Garden Clubs of Michigan. Actively involved in The League of Women Voters, she never missed voting in an election. She readily contacted her congressional representatives and wrote letters to the editor of the Gazette freely expressing her opinions. An avid reader and book club member, she loved the challenge of a competitive Scrabble game. Artistically gifted, Esther received the top award at many flower shows, designed and created unique quilts, and she sewed most of her clothing and interior decor. She adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Esther delighted in meeting people of all ages, and in return they loved and respected her. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 27, 2012 at 2 p.m. at People's Church, 1758 N. 10th Street, Kalamazoo. There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Esther's name to the People's Church or the Kalamazoo Nature Center, 7000 N. Westnedge, Kalamazoo. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. Please visit www.langelands.com for online obituary, directions and register book to leave condolences.