Esther Crocker

1930 ~ 2024

(Monica); grandchildren, Joshua (Courtney), Jonathan (Cortney), Darryn (Aaron), Shelby (Ryan), Brandon, and Alexander (Megan); a brother, Leon; her great grandchildren; Calvin, Teddy, Lucas, Gabriel, Philip, Iva, Sophia, Louie, Adrienne, Kennedy, Seth, Alistair, Cash and a baby girl on the way and many other extended family SUTTONS BAY – Esther E. Crocker, 94, of Suttons Bay, passed away peacefully at Orchard Creek Supportive Care on Friday, April 19, 2024.

Esther was born on January 5, 1930 in Centerville Township to the late Michael and Regina (Brzezinski) Galla. She grew up on the family farm in Leelanau County with her parents and 11 siblings. Esther was the youngest of the first five daughters, followed by her seven younger brothers. Esther graduated from Holy Rosary School.

On July 1, 1950, Esther married William Ray Crocker at Holy Rosary Church and they enjoyed over 46 years together, living in Suttons Bay, before his passing on October 26, 1996. Once their children were grown they enjoyed many traveling adventures whether it was to Florida for the winter, Hawaii for an anniversary, cruises, or a tour of Europe.

Growing up Esther worked in the orchards picking cherries and after high school worked the early years for Michigan Bell Telephone. After the youngest son started school, Esther went to work for Suttons Bay Schools as the Assistant Cook and the Head Cook for numerous years. Esther attended St. Michael’s Church of Suttons Bay where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and Lector. She also devoted years to the Altar Society and Church quilters. Esther had a strong work ethic and was deeply devoted to her faith.

Esther is survived by her sons, Robert, Daniel, Allan (Michelle), and Terrance members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Bill; her sisters Alvena, Dorothy, Susan, Marie, and brothers Stephen, Paul, Anthony, Walter, John and Donald.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. with the Rosary to be prayed at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 25 at St. Michael’s Church of Suttons Bay.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 26 with the family greeting friends at 1 p.m. also at the church. Burial will follow in St. Michael’s Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Michigan, 10850 E. Traverse Highway, Suite 1155, Traverse City, MI 49684 The family extends their deepest gratitude and appreciation to the staff and caregivers of Orchard Creek and Hospice of Michigan for their loving care and support. Please share condolences with the family at www.martinson.info

Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.