Esther Matilda Brown's Obituary
Esther Brown passed away peacefully, on Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at her home in Sebring, Florida surrounded by family. She was 99. Esther was born on February 17, 1913 on a farm in Newaygo County to William and Bessie Modrow. She moved to Big Rapids when she was six years old and remained a resident until 1999. She graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1932 where she was senior class president. As a young adult, Esther was very active in her community. She worked and performed in local theater groups and was chairperson of the Young Republicans of Mecosta County. She was part owner of Martz and Shapley drug store and worked at Citizens bank. On February 8, 1953, Esther married Doyle Brown, who survives her. They lived a wonderful, happy life together. Esther was very involved in her community and church. She was a member of the Zonta Club and the Hospital Auxiliary where she spent many hours volunteering. She was a long time member of St. Peters Lutheran Church. Her church and Christian faith were a cornerstone in her life. Esther was also an avid player of Bridge and belonged to many Bridge clubs. Esther is survived by her husband, Doyle, two sons, Bryan of Thornton, Colorado and Max of Pennsylvania, two grandsons, David and Kaleb, her sister, Mary Magee and many nieces and nephews - including her favorite niece, Jane Rogers Johansen. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Theodore and sisters Agnes, Mildred and Mabel. She also had a sister Bessie who died at birth. Along with her sisters, Esther was known for decades in Big Rapids as one of the "Modrow Girls", a colorful and talented set of siblings. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Monday, September 10, 2012 at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pasto John Bookshaw officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 Noon until the time of services. Interment will follow at Highland View Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids.
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