We are saddened to announce the passing of our mother, Esther Christine Johannesson, at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton on October 31, 2025. Predeceased by her husband Leifur and son Dennis, Esther leaves behind two daughters: Jeannette and Becky, and five sons: Randy, Glen, Carey, Aaron and Tim.

Born and raised near Quill Lakes, SK, Esther was the last survivor of a large family including her parents Jacob and Mary, five brothers and five sisters.

Through her many challenges in life, raising 8 children, Esther maintained a positive and caring attitude, providing love and support to each of her children and her multitude of grandchildren.  As the best “Grandma”, she always had a cookie or cinnamon bun at hand for her 20 grandkids, 45 great grandkids, 4 great-great grandkids and adults alike. Her greatest pleasures were going to Bingo and cooking for others. 

In mid-life, Esther leveraged her skills preparing meals for a large family (along with frequent friends) and embarked on a career of professional cooking, learning the technical skills of nutrition and food safety as the head cook at the Hardisty Hospital. Her philosophy was that nutritious and tasty food was a basis for quick recovery in hospital; she frequently had to hide cookies she had baked from staff to make sure they were available for patients. And patients frequently chose the Hardisty Hospital based upon the quality of food prepared by Esther.

Esther spent her last days being well cared for by the nurses and doctors at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, surrounded by her family and watching her favorite team, the Blue Jays, advance in the finals of the World Series. Esther will be deeply missed. Please take a moment to reflect on your fond memories of her.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Esther in the Community Hall in Hardisty at 2:00 pm on November 8, 2025. A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow the service.

Memorial donations may be made to a Charity of Donor's choice.