Obituary of Esther Sweeney

Esther Sweeney August 9, 1912 - May 9, 2013 Esther Bricker was born in Scofield, Michigan on August 9, 1912. She was the daughter of the late Franklin U. Bricker and the late Mary (Angerer) Bricker. Esther attended Monroe High School and graduated with the Class of 1930. On November 14, 1936, Esther married the love of her life, Stanley S. Sweeney. From this union came the birth of two children. The young family would settle on a farm in Maybee near Scofield. As Stanley tended to the dairy cows and cash crops: soy beans, corn, and wheat, and assisted other local farmers with his equipment, Esther raised the children and looked after the family's large garden. Esther also cared for over 100 laying hens to maintain the home egg delivery route. They would raise steer as well. Esther was a longtime active member of the Scofield United Methodist Church serving in many different capacities including: Sunday School Teacher, Treasurer, and chaired the Ladies Aid. In her free time, Esther enjoyed creating latch hook rugs, knitting, playing the piano, and reading from the library. Esther remained very active even into her Golden Years. She re-wallpapered her living room at age 80, sold her home, had a different home remodeled and moved at 90, and drove until 95. Esther Sweeney, age 100 of Monroe, passed away peacefully under the care of Mercy Memorial Hospice at home on Thursday, May 9, 2013. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by her husband: Stanley S. Sweeney on May 19, 1997; brother: Gordon Bricker; and sisters: Ethlinda Jarrett and Viola Herkimer. To cherish her memory she leaves son: Carl (Sharon) Sweeney of LaSalle; daughter: Diane Sweeney of LaSalle; one granddaughter: Cheryl R. Sweeney and her husband: Craig L. Prater of LaSalle; two great grandchildren: Grant LaMont Prater and Drew T. Prater. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 9:00pm, Monday, May 13, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, May 14, 2013, also at Merkle's. Reverend William Kreichbaum pastor of Calvary United Methodist Church officiating. Procession will follow to Northside Cemetery in Maybee for burial. Donations are suggested to the Calvary United Methodist Church, American Cancer Society, or Mercy Memorial Hospice. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.