Esther Kuenker

Esther Lorraine (Neumann) Kuenker went peacefully to be with her Lord, February 4th, 2017 at Cherry Suites in Elk Rapids. She was 91. Born February 2nd, 1926 to John and Gertrude (Engelke) Neumann of Saginaw, Michigan, Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Rolland F. Kuenker. She is survived by her three children, Ann Kuenker, Traverse City, MI, John (and Carol) Kuenker, Bay City, MI and Kay Kuenker, Indianapolis, IN, as well as 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Esther was an elementary school teacher and spent more than 30 years teaching in the Bangor Township Public Schools as well as Faith Lutheran and Zion Lutheran Schools. Rolland and Esther were charter members of Faith Lutheran Church where she devoted much of her time in the Adult Choir and Adult Bell Choir. Esther had a terrific sense of humor and loved life... .and dogs! She enjoyed The Bay City Players, both as a volunteer and on stage. She was a member of The Recyclables and enjoyed performing with both groups. She and Rolland were long time volunteers for the Rochester Leader Dogs for the Blind and raised 18 puppies for the program. There will be a service celebrating Esther's life at Faith Lutheran Church Saturday, August 12, with fellowship beginning at 9:30 and the Memorial service starting at 11 am. Donations in Esther's memory can be made to any of Faith Lutheran Church Music Program (Adult Choir or Bells), Bay City Players or Leader Dogs for the Blind in Rochester Michigan. Arrangements have been handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.