Esther Eberhart
Wood River | Save
Esther Helen (Neunaber) Eberhart passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Born in 1931, she was the fourth of five children of Charles and Louise (Helmkamp) Neunaber. We proudly celebrate her long, productive life and significant accomplishments.
Esther was a Registered Nurse in the operating room of St. Joseph’s Hospital and president of the Alumnae club. She co-founded the family business, B & W Heating and Cooling - still in operation since 1949! She was President of the Alton National Toastmistress Club, Board member of the Madison County Private Industry Council, first female President of Wood River’s Chamber of Commerce, and President of the Wood River Heritage Council. She helped restore the historic chapel on Lorena Avenue, greatly enhanced the local Wood River Museum, helped clean up the Vaughn Hill Cemetery, and was a sparkling ambassador for the 2004 re-enactment of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. She volunteered for years at “Operation Blessing” (distribution center for the needy) and was a dedicated member of St. Paul Lutheran Church. As a young adult, she made several trips to Springfield, IL, as an activist. A music lover, Esther played the clarinet as a child, sang in choirs throughout her life, and played in the handbell choir as an adult. She also excelled at Solitaire and Sudoku.
Somewhere in there she raised six children: Jan, Beth, Ann, Mark, Gail, and Kay. They, as well as her eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren, will miss her warm spirit. Esther was truly blessed with excellent health, mobility, and clarity of mind until the very end - she enjoyed ALL of LIFE and will be greatly missed.
Her life will be celebrated at St. Paul's Lutheran Church on Saturday, February 10, 2024. Visitation will be held from 3 pm until time of service at 5 pm.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the church would be greatly appreciated.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
