Esther Leichtman

Esther Leichtman, age 91, of New Rockford, ND, formerly of McHenry, ND, died Wednesday,
February 3, 2010, at Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd, New Rockford, ND, under the care of Presentation Hospice.

Esther was born on June 16, 1918, in rural McHenry to Frank and Rose (Schmoker) Merrick. She married Ralph Leichtman on July 3, 1937 in New Rockford, ND. Esther and Ralph ranched in eastern Eddy County until moving to New Rockford in 1985. Ralph died on January 23, 1990. Esther continued to reside in her home until January 2009, when she moved to the Heritage House in New Rockford, ND. Esther entered Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd in October 2009, where she remained until her passing.

Esther was active in many community organizations over her years. She was a 50 year Homemakers member and also a 4-H leader for many years. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women. In addition, she belonged to the Eagles Auxiliary, Red Hats, Golden Age and the New Rockford Senior Center.

Known for her crafts and handwork, she was skilled at crocheting, knitting, hardanger, tatting, embroidery and sewing. She also enjoyed gardening and bingo.

Esther was survived by: one son, Loyd (Joann), McHenry, ND; one daughter, Joan (Dewey) Heckaman,
New Rockford, ND; seven grandchildren, Jerilyn Rethemeier, Grand Forks, ND, Michael (Paula) Leichtman, McHenry, ND, Angie (Steve) Williams, Wahpeton, ND, Scott (Amy) Heckaman, Dickinson, ND, Dan (Angie) Heckaman, Moorhead, MN, Wayne (Meagan) Heckaman, Mott, ND, Laura (Brian) Dokken, Wahpeton, ND; fifteen great-grandchildren and one sister, Gladys Eller, Boise, ID.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two brothers, Wilmet and Lowell, and one granddaughter, Amy Leichtman.


Funeral Service: United Methodist Church, New Rockford, ND

Date and Time: Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 2:00PM

Interment: Grace City Cemetery, Grace City, ND

 

Posted Condolences:

 

Name: John & Muriel Otto

Date: 02-05-2010

Message: Joan & family, So sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. I remember her as such a wonderful person !!!!! Hold on to the memories. John & I will be giving a memorial in her name to our Ulen Rescue Squad. John & Muriel

**********

Name: Blake and Mandi Kittelson

Date: 2/5/2010

Message: Joan and Dewey,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead.

Blake, Mandi, and Britain Kittelson

***********