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Esther Lorraine Dengler passed away peacefully on February 10, 2016, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 21, 1923, Grand Rapids, Michigan, and lived an enchanted life. She had the ability to see the beauty in everyone and everything. She made you feel special by her warm smile and kind words, because you knew that she was genuinely interested in you. She had such an artistic flair that she could pick a leaf off the ground or a flower in the garden and make a striking centerpiece. Her motto was that simplicity is the truest form of elegance. Esther enjoyed traveling, attending classes at Emeritus College (OLLI) at Aquinas College, and working in her garden. In her younger days, she skied, sailed, worked as a fiscal manager, and contributed to the war effort inspecting parachutes in Connecticut. Her greatest pleasure was spending time with family and friends. She adored her grandsons, Nicholas and Harrison, and cherished every moment they were together. She had a special relationship with her only child, Karen, they were the best of friends. She missed the love of her life, Herbert, since his passing a year ago. They were a wonderful couple, bringing out the best in each other. She will be remembered by her daughter, Karen Dengler-DeChant, grandsons Nicholas and Harrison DeChant, sister Sr. Karen Werra, brother-in-law Anthony Alksnis, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Herbert Dengler, son-in-law Mark DeChant, parents Peter and Stephanie (Plocki) Werra, sister Geraldine (Werra) Alksnis, brother and sister-in-law Russell and Margaret (Towner) Werra, and brother-in-law Siegfried Dengler. The family wishes to thank Dr. Daniel Drumm and Esther's caregivers. A Visitation will be held on Monday, February 15, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m with a Vigil Service at 8:30 p.m. at the Arsulowicz Brothers Mortuary on 3525 Remembrance Road NW. The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, February 16, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Church located at 2510 Richmond St. NW with the Rev. Mark Przybysz officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the funeral in the church. Memorial contributions may be given to the Aquinas College Foundation-OLLI, 1607 Robinson Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 or the Marywood Health Center, 111 Lakeside Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI. 49503. To leave a memory please visit www.arsulowiczbrothers.com
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Dear Karen, Nicolas and Harrison
Know that we are with you in thoughts and prayers in these hard times. You have lost a wonderful mother and grandmother. I have so many great memories of her. How she made me feel welcome whenever I stayed at her and uncle Herberts house, the fun times we had together, when were out; how we talked through the nights about everything and nothing. Her warm smile was just wonderful. But now she is with Uncle Herbert and Mark and I am sure the 3 of the are up there and watch over us. May you find comfort and peace in this. lave Gabi with Bernhard and the girls
Gabriele Eckert
February 17, 2016
Karen, Harrison and Nicholas-
My heart is breaking for you! I review the obituaries occasionally and just learned of the passing of your mom and grandmother. I am an OTA at Marywood and worked with Herbert and was also at Porter Hills when he was there for rehab. I watched your family lovingly care for him through those years as Herbert slowly declined and was saddened to hear of his passing last year. The dedication and love you have for each other was beautiful to witness. I am equally saddened to learn of Esther and Mark's passing! It wasn't that long ago that I saw Mark out walking through the Marywood campus! My prayers are with your family during this difficult time. May God grant you His perfect peace as you transition through another loss. I will continue to pray for your family as God lays you on my heart!
Patty Shear
February 16, 2016
Dear Karen and Family, Your obituary tribute was beautiful and extremely well written. I will miss your mom's cute smile and her gentleness. Your Mom and Dad and Mark are all planting flowers in heaven. May they all enjoy eternal happiness. I pray that you and the boy's stay strong during these most difficult times. I will be in church between 11AM and noon on Tuesday. God Bless!!,Bern Geerling
Bern Geerling
February 15, 2016
Dear Karen,Nicholas and Harrison,With my very deepest sympathy on the passing of your Sweet Mother and Dear Grandmother. I cannot be there for the Celebration of Her Life,but know you will be in my thoughts and prayers and 11:00 on Tuesday,February 16. Very Sincerely, Carole Riddering
February 15, 2016
Dear Karen, Nicholas and Harrison,
Your mom and grandmother was a lovely lady! I hope that fond memories of her carry you through this sad time. And, be at peace that she is now re-united with Herb, Mark and her family.
Suzanne Makarewicz
February 15, 2016
Sorry for your loss Karen. God bless you and your family.Ron and JoLynn Harmon
Ron Harmon
February 15, 2016
our sincerest sympathy to you Karen, Harrison and Nicholas in the loss of your mother and grandmother. Esther was a very friendly person, always with a ready smile. Esther and Herb were great neighbor. Keep those memories of your mother and grandmother close to your heart to comfort you at this difficult time. We will continue to keep you all in our prayers. We are very sorry we cannot be with you in person at this time. Always your friends Hank & Cheryl
Hank Cheryl Makarewicz
February 15, 2016
Karen, your mom was a beautiful person. I only have wonderful memories of her. Sincere condolences, Joan
Joan Dyer Zyskowski
February 14, 2016
So sorry for your loss,Karen,Nicholas and Harrison. May you feel the loving embrace of Jesus along with His Peace. Love never dies- may all your memories bring comfort.
Mary Kay Potyraj
February 13, 2016
We will never forget the wonderful time we spent together. Karen, Nicholas and Harrison we are with you in our thoughts.
Ernest with Karin and Nicolas, Amalie and Ernst
Ernest Berghofer
February 13, 2016
Dear Karen, Nicholas and Harrison,
You have my deepest sympathy.
Glory be to the Father, who yearns for our wholeness...Glory be to the Son, who loves us eternally...Glory be to the Holy Spirit, who dreams with us about the days to come.
Peace!
Ross Hoffman
February 12, 2016
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