Obituary of Esther M. Schmidt (Oster)

Esther Melvina Oster Schmidt, Age 98yrs. Born: October 15, 1914 Died: January 2013 Esther Schmidt was born October 15,1914 in Monango, N.D. Upon graduation from high school she attended Ellendale Normal and Industrial College, earning her teaching credential. She taught elementary school students for five years in her home town. She also lived in Jamestown, Edgely, and Bottineau N.D. with her best years spent in Lodi, CA. In 1939, Esther, married Melvin Schmidt in Monango, ND. Melvin, brother Edgar, sister Leona, and her parents preceded her in death. She is survived by her three children, Curtis Schmidt of Spokane, WA, Terry Schmidt of XXX, FL., and Madalyn Shepard of Carmichael, CA. She was proud of her eight grandchildren and 14 great - grandchildren. As an active member of the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church, she was involved in choir, where she was the conductor for 50 years. Her services in N.D. included 13 years on the North Dakota District Executive Women's Missionary League Board, the Community Concert Board, State March of Dimes, the Women's Club, and served as President of the American Legion Auxiliary. In Lodi, Ca., she conducted and organized the "Saints A Marchin" Band for 13 years, enjoying the opportunity of entertaining at schools, convalescent hospitals as well as county and state fairs. Also, while living in Lodi, Esther was employed by the San Juaquin Local Health District for 13 years, retiring in 1979. In 1982 Esther was selected as the Outstanding Senior Woman of the Year by the Board of Supervisors of San Juaquin County for her service and dedication to the community. Esther's hobbies included sewing, crocheting, traveling, gardening, studying the Bible, and writing. She has written a charming memoir of her life entitled, "Fragrant Memories". She was an accomplished painter, as well. Her works were received and appreciated by many. Esther loved visits with friends, her children, and grandchildren. She lived in her Lodi home until she was 96yrs., moving to Carmichael, Ca. to be closer to her daughter, Madalyn. Prior to her death, Esther was blessed to have family and friends by her side as they relived cherished memories. Many were blessed to have her in their lives and to witness her love, grace and talents. Esther's life and death are a testament of her love and faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Esther went home to be with her husband, and her Lord, on April 3, 2013.