Esther Mader, age 89, of Quinter, KS passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at Gove County Medical Center Long Term Care, Quinter. Esther was born in rural Sheridan County, Kansas on January 16, 1930 to Alex and Anna (Bollig) Kinderknecht.

Esther attended Riverside School where she completed the eighth grade. She was united in marriage to Alvin Mader on April 24, 1950, and they were happily married for 69 years. She was a farmwife on the family farm where she spent her time raising and caring for her children, spending time gardening, and canning the fruits of her labors. She enjoyed crocheting, embroidery, and sewing. She was also a member of the Saint Peter Christian Ladies.

Esther is survived by her loving husband Alvin; sons Rodger (Barb) of Hoxie, KS, Kirby (Rita) of Quinter, KS, Dennis (Edna) of Collyer, KS, and Greg (Becky) of Quinter, KS; daughters Deb (Randy) Balluch of WaKeeney, KS and Janice (Bob) Porter of Derby KS; twenty-four grandchildren; thirty-seven great-grandchildren; brother Robert (Virginia) Kinderknecht; sister Thelma (Gilbert) Wildeman; and many other relatives and friends.

Esther was preceded in death by both parents; six brothers, Julius, Eugene, Marvin, Cletus, Virgil, and Charles; one sister Dorothy, and three infant sisters; one grandchild; and one great-grandchild.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 am, Monday, September 16, 2019 at Saint Michael Catholic Church, Collyer with Father Charles Steier as celebrant.  Burial will follow at Saint Michael Cemetery.

Visitation will be Sunday evening from 5 to 7pm with Rosary immediately following at Schmitt Funeral Home in Quinter.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Gove County Medical Center Long-Term Care. Donations made to the organization may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main, Quinter, KS 67752.

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