Esther "Jackie" Willmarth

Esther Willmarth, 96, of La Grande, died April 5.

According to her wishes, there will be no formal services.

Esther was born Jan. 17, 1914, to John Frederick Schlosser and Rosamonde Appleby Schlosser near Sunnyside, Wash. She became known as Jackie because she was her "dad's boy," and he called her Jack. She grew up on the family farm and walked 2 1/2 miles to and from school. She graduated as valedictorian from Sunnyside High School where she was active in drama and singing.

On Dec. 25, 1931, she married Don Willmarth at her parents' home near Toppenish, Wash. Don was employed as a lineman for the telephone company, but this was during the time of the Depression and he lost his job. They both worked various jobs and also tried farming on an Indian reservation, where their son, John, was born in 1939. In 1940, Don started working for the Oregon-Washington Telephone Co. again, and in 1942 he was transferred to Burns where he became district manager. Jackie got a job for a distribution company where she worked until the family moved to

La Grande in 1952. She was immediately employed "temporarily" at US Bank, where she worked her way to loan officer. She retired in 1972.

As a retirement gift, the bank gave her oil paints, brushes, canvasses and an easel. She started painting, something she had wanted to try. The bank had a showing of her paintings and all sold. For several years, she enjoyed painting and selling a variety of subjects including sceneries, old barns, churches and houses and even some portraits. She also took several painting workshops and was secretary of the Union County Art Guild.

Jackie was a charter member of the Credit Women's Club, and joined the Soroptimist Club in 1968. She became president of the club and was an active member until she retired at which time she became a life member. In 1970, Jackie was named Woman of the Year, and in 1988, she received the Jean McKenzie award for Soroptimist and community service.

In 1973, Jackie joined the Hospital Auxiliary and became treasurer for several years. She put in many hours until 1988, when she became a life member, still helping but not working regular hours at the hospital. She was a charter member of Emblem Club No. 518 and was its organist for many years. She was also a member of the Knife and Fork Club and twice elected its president.

In 1987, she was appointed by the Rev. David Moore to be a trustee of the Koinonia House, as St. Peter's Episcopal Church representative. She and her husband along with their son, John, became members of St. Peter's in 1953.

She was also a member and treasurer of St. Ann's Guild. For 40 years, she sang in the choir and was often a soloist. She and Don worked for several years for the church and Emblem Club serving senior meals. She also played the piano and sang for weddings, funerals, style shows and various other occasions.

Music, painting, reading, crocheting, traveling and hiking were among her favorite pastimes, but her joy was her family, and also her many friends.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; and her husband of 65 years, Don, who died in 1996. She is survived by her son, John and his wife, Hazel; two grandsons; and two great-grandsons.

Cards may be sent to Paul Willmarth, 1108 I Ave., La Grande 97850.

Memorial contributions may be made to Neighbor to Neighbor.

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