Esther Hildner

Mrs. Esther Hildner (née Streit), of Naperville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, at the age of 92.
Esther was born on March 18, 1933, to William and Frieda Streit. Esther was one of nine children and lived on Altgeld Street in Chicago until she married Carl Hildner. She told the story of how they met at a local dance and then both attended Valparaiso University. They were married for 58 years until his passing, and together they built a loving home and an enduring legacy.
Esther was the devoted mother of John (Cindy), James (Lynna), Ruth (Steve Ziolkowski), Tom (Jamie Bolton), and Peter (Gretchen). Her nurturing spirit extended across generations as she became the proud grandmother of 14 and great-grandmother of 3. She was the beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews.
Her life was marked by deep commitment to family, faith and service. Though Esther worked outside of the home in the insurance industry after her children were grown, her passion was for staying actively involved in her children and grandchildren's lives. She was a member of the Valpo Guild, volunteered at her church, The Glen Ellyn Food Pantry, DuPage County Convalescent Center, and Naper Settlement.
After Carl's passing, Esther moved to Monarch Landing in Naperville. She was so grateful for the community, friends, and the many activities that were offered at Monarch. She loved to attend family celebration events including birthday parties, weddings and holidays. Esther often said how thankful she was for the excellent care provided by her health care team and family. A highlight of her week for the past five years has been the online "Grandma Games" where she could see and hear from her many children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren.
May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of kindness in her honor. A Service will be held on October 25, 2025 at St. Luke Lutheran Church 23W080 Butterfield Road Glen Ellyn Illinois. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am and a funeral service at 11:30 am. All are welcome to stay for a light lunch after the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Luke Lutheran or the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry-organizations that reflect her lifelong commitment to community care and spiritual devotion.