Esther Edna Kivimaki

Esther Edna Kivimaki, 77, of Crystal Falls Township, passed away on Friday, April 7, 2017 at Sutter Medical Center in Sacramento, California. She was born on April 24, 1939 in Crystal Falls Township, daughter of the late George and Ilmi (Maki) Latva. She attended Amasa High School, graduating as the Valedictorian of the Class of 1957. Esther married Victor Onnie Kivimaki on April 30, 1960 in Crystal Falls and he preceded her in death in 1995. She enjoyed work in bookkeeping, accounting and real estate for many years before retiring in 2006. She was a lifelong resident of Crystal Falls Township and was an active and faithful member of the United Lutheran Church. Esther's compassion and generosity for others knew no boundaries. She loved to hear people's life stories and often said "just the right thing" to make someone feel better. She was a friend to all and had a way of making people feel special. Her love and pride in her family was evident whenever she shared stories, which was often! She lived a full and meaningful life, making a difference by sharing God's love in how she treated others. Esther is survived by her daughter, Vicki (Ken) West of Crystal Falls; sons, Dan Kivimaki (Sue Hadley) of Crystal Falls, and Scott (Lynne) Kivimaki of Sussex, WI; a brother, Jim (Judy) Latva; grandchildren, Emily (Zach) Tarter, Amy West (Tim Wheeler), Rachel West, Lauren and Samuel Kivimaki; Great grandchildren, David, Rebekah, Jacob and Elizabeth Tarter; special nieces and nephews & their families; her "Golden Girls"; her beloved partner Alvin Tirapelli; treasured neighbors, friends & family, too numerous to mention. Along with her parents and husband, Esther was preceded in death by a brother, William "Bill" Latva. The visitation is set for Saturday, April 22, 2017 from 9:00 am to 12 Noon at the United Lutheran Church in Crystal Falls. The Funeral Service will follow at 12 Noon at the church. Rev. Micheal Laakko will officiate. Burial will be in the Hematite Township Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Don Bastianello, Mike McDonald, Ben Nixon, John Nixon, Rob Stoor, Scott Strahan and Bud West. In lieu of flowers a memorial will be established in her memory. Condolences to the family of Esther E. Kivimaki may be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net The family has entrusted the Nash Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with the funeral arrangements.

Esther Edna Kivimaki

April 24, 1939 - April 7, 2017