Obituary: Ernst, Esther Irene
Age 92
She was born in Bowdle, South Dakota on July 16, 1921, to Christian and Katrina Martz.
She moved with her family to Millwood at the age of seven and lived in the area most of her life.
At the time of her move from South Dakota, Esther spoke only German.
She taught herself English by listening to neighbors and relatives who had previously moved to the area.
After graduating from West Valley High School in 1940, Esther worked diligently at several jobs in the Spokane area including a local linen company and Sunshine Biscuit Company.
After dedicating 35 years as a cashier for Safeway Stores, she retired in 1976.
She was married to her husband and fishing partner, Herschel Ernst, for 32 years until his death in 1997.
Esther was the last surviving member of her immediate family (Martz) and was preceded in death by her parents, four sisters and three brothers.
She is survived by her sons, Larry Threlkeld (Liz Box), Paul Huck (Patti), and Steve Huck (Connie), all of Spokane Valley; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by her constant companion and loving partner of the last 16 years, Malcolm Robertson.
Always quick with a smile, Esther often said, “I’d rather dance than eat!”
True to her word, Esther and Malcolm were dancing just days before her recent illness.
Second to dancing, she loved working word-search puzzles and playing Pinochle with family and friends.
Her hands were never idle.
She spent hours crocheting afghans, and her embroidered pillow cases proudly won her 1st Place ribbons at our Interstate Fair.
We will all miss her “a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck”.
A Funeral Service will take place on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at 2:00pm at Thornhill Valley Chapel, 1400 S. Pines Road, Spokane Valley, WA.
In lieu of flowers, Esther would appreciate donations be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church, Spokane Valley, WA where she was a life-long member.