Esther Elizabeth Reuter, age 94, was welcomed into eternal life surrounded by love and prayers of her family.
She was born on Aug. 9, 1931, to Paul and Francis Probst, and grew up in Wilmont, Minnesota. On May 1, 1950, Esther was united in marriage to the love of her life, Lawrence Reuter. Together they made their home on a farm west of Lismore, Minnesota, where they raised their four children. In 2007, the couple moved to Luverne; Lawrence passed away shortly after their move.
Esther devoted her entire life to her family and to serving the Lord. Her greatest joys were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren-each one prayed for, cherished, and loved unconditionally. She was a woman of deep faith, gently strength, and unwavering kindness.
She enjoyed knitting with her friends, volunteering at church, and baking countless treats for her family, including wedding cakes for loved ones. Esther was a member of St. Catherine church in Luverne and St. Anthony in Lismore, where she served on the parish board and Ladies aid President. After settling in Luverne, Esther continued her life of service by volunteering at Sanford Hospital, attending daily Mass at St. Catherine Catholic Church, and spending time in adoration.
Esther is survived by her children: Barb Loonan; Connie (Mike) Burkard; Jim (Denise) Reuter; Carolyn (Joe) Kollmann. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Eric Loonan, Erin (Ryan) Jesionek; Kristi (Gabe) Laber, Kerri (Ryan) DeGraff; Matt Burkard; Emma (Dirks) Strykowski; Rhea (Brent) Edwards; Mark (Nina) Reuter; Sami (Terrence) Pang; and Heather (Derek) Slama. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Catherine, Lauren, Ashlyn, Meghan, and Devyn Jesionek, Brayden and Briley Laber; Adelyn, Juliet, and Lillian DeGraff; Amelia and Madeline Edwards; Easton and Kyler Slama; Baby Girl Pang: numerous nieces and nephew; and a dear friend, Tillie.
Esther is preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Reuter, her daughter, Sandra Reuter, grandson, Nicholas Burkard, son-in-law, Dennis Loonan, sisters; Marcella (Pete) Reuter, Leona (Ralph) Fuerstenberg, brothers; Eddie (Marge) Probst, Chuck (Pat) Probst, and Tom (Elaine) Probst.
Funeral was Monday, Dec. 15, at the Dingmann Funeral Home in Luverne, officiated by Fr. David Krogman. Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Monday. Burial was in the St. Anthony Cemetery in Lismore.
In lieu of flowers, the family requested that memorials be directed to a charity of your choosing.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers and kindness shown to Esther, especially from the caregivers at Prince of Peace Assisted Living.
