Esther Wyman

Esther Louise Wyman, beloved sister, mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother & dear friend died peacefully at dawn on February 25^th, 2024. Esther was born in Lawton, Michigan to Cecil & Louise Wyman (Emery) along with 4 brothers & 4 sisters. Growing up one of nine kids working on a farm may have inspired her pursuit for the finer things in life. 

After graduating from Bronson School of Nursing in 1957, Esther worked as a RN in Labor & Delivery and was instrumental in developing the NICU department as one of Bronson’s first woman in administration. Esther earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Communication from Western Michigan University while working full time at BMH. She then became a Clinical Research Associate at Jasper Clinic and later was the coordinator for many years of seasonal vaccines. 

During Esther’s free time, she was an avid collector and had a very gifted eye for the eclectic. Esther owned & operated The Little Red School House Antique store in Otsego, MI. Her love for antiques is also shown through the meticulous display of her treasures in her 100-year-old Victorian Painted Lady home, which she took so much pride in its upkeep. Esther was up before the sun most days, especially when there was an estate sale! She loved to travel and enjoyed hosting luncheons and tea parties with her many friends wearing her many collected hats. Esther volunteered at the Ladies Library of Kalamazoo, Planned Parenthood, and tended to neighbors as needed.  

Preceded in death by Sisters Barbara & Harriet, her baby brother Roger Wyman, and her love; Victor Askew. 

Esther is survived by daughters Leslie & Lisa Adkins (Jeff Ritke), Victor’s son Kevin Askew, Sisters: Margaret (Shoji Masuzawa), Kay (Cordell Jones), Brothers: Richard (Teri), Ray (Carol), Tim (Alice) Wyman, Grandchildren: Carlie, Abbey (Chris Hefty), Andy (Sarah) Van Horn, Piper (Eric Koloski) & Parker Ritke, Great Granddaughter Ellie Van Horn, many nieces & nephews who love their “Aunt Esther” and all kids she befriended along the way.  

Esther will be greatly missed by those who knew her, those she paved the way for, and those who were touched by her kindness and generosity. 

The family gives special thanks to the staff at Woodside at Friendship Village and Rose Arbor for their support and care.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Richmond Center for the Arts at Western Michigan University on June 1^st from 2-5 PM. In lieu of flowers, Donations to the Alzheimer’s Association are greatly appreciated. www.alz.org/donate  

While visiting Esther’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family. 

The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 120 S. Woodhams St. Plainwell, MI 49080 (269-685-5881).