Esther Irene Erickson Fish was born September 2, 1924 at Rhame, ND, the daughter of Jack and Olga Smidesang Erickson. She was raised on the family farm by Griffin, until her parents purchased their farm by Rhame. She attended grade school at Atkinson school, and high school in Rhame, where she graduated as valedictorian of the class of 1941. She was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran church in Rhame.
On March 27, 1948, she married Frank Fish. They had three children, and lived on the former Ed Swanson farm west of Rhame until the spring of 1966, when they moved into Rhame. Prior to her marriage, Esther worked as a bookkeeper at Farmers Equity Union elevator, working with Paul Zielsdorf and Byron Monroe.
Esther was an active member of First Lutheran church, where she taught Sunday school and Bible school. She served as church treasurer for 14 years, served on the funeral committee, and as treasurer of the church's Memorial Fund. She was an avid bowler for many years and was very proud of her high game of 246, and her high series of 630!! She also enjoyed reading, making sure that the bookmobile never bypassed Rhame. Esther was a great person with a warm heart and a wonderful sense of humor; she showed remarkable grace and strength while facing many challenges in her life.
Esther is survived by her three children: Myra (Mike) Heinrich, Tom (Corrie) Fish, and Laurie (Rick) Braaten; seven grandchildren: Christi (Scott) Jenkins, Tyler and Lacey Fish, and Paden, Daulton, Colter, and Chandler Braaten; two great-grandchildren: Mason and Emelia Jenkins; along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, her parents, two sisters, Helen Wiffler and Inez Cramer, and four brothers, Clarence, Albin, Roy and Lester Erickson.
A memorial service is planned for a later date.