Esther Pauline O’Neil

Esther Pauline O'Neil, age 96, died Monday, May 30, 2016 at Bronson Commons in Mattawan.

She was born Jan. 15, 1920 to August and Marie (Thompson) Besemer in Covert into a family with seventeen children.

She married Lawrence Francis O'Neil on Mar. 12, 1938 and shared 48 years together. Esther is survived by her last remaining sibling, Rosella Nichols of Saint Charles; son, Larry (Fran) O'Neil and daughter, Patricia (Roy) Baldwin; five grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, Lawrence; fifteen siblings; a daughter, Marguerite (Peggy) Kidd and two grandchildren, Everett Kidd and Teresa Fuller.

Esther loved people and making people laugh. Her wit and humor will surely be missed and her sparkling baby blue eyes. Her faith was an inspiration to all who knew her.

As per Esther's wishes, a private family service will be held and she will be laid to rest in North Shore Memory Gardens, Hagar Shores. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

"Someday the silver cord will break, then we shall see him face to face. The Lord is my shepherd."