Esther E. (Walter) Crail

Esther E. (Walter) Crail of Battle Creek, MI


Esther, age 87, died Tuesday morning, June 18, 2019 at Glenn Arbor Hospice Residence, Battle Creek after a month stay and with her loving family at her side.

Esther, the daughter of Wayne A. and Blenn L. (Day) Walter, was born in Battle Creek on February 16, 1932; was a lifelong resident and 1950 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. She retired in 1987 after 33 years of service with the Kellogg Company and was a member of their 25 Year Club. Esther devoted her life to her family and the holidays were her favorite time of year for family gatherings. Esther was united in marriage to George I. Crail on August 6, 1971. Esther and her husband, George spent many summer's boating in South Haven and wintering in Kissimmee, FL. Esther was an avid collector of silver coins, porcelain birds, NASCAR memorabilia and Christmas ornaments. She was also an amazing cook and her recipes will live on through her family for years to come.

Surviving is her husband George I. Crail, two daughters, Karen D. Hempton of Fort Gratiot, MI and Catherine A. (Mark) Kreter of St. Joseph, MI; two sons, Michael J. Rond of Battle Creek and Mark D. Crail of Kalamazoo, MI; five precious grandchildren, Michael R. (Cheryl) Rond, Amy D. Hempton, Kevin M. (Michelle) Kreter, Jessica L. Rond, Kristopher T. (Maggie) Kreter, and five great grandchildren; a brother, J.R. Walter of Battle Creek and numerous nieces and nephews. Her little Yorkie, Abbie, gave her much joy and unconditional love. Esther was preceded in death by her parents; seven sisters, Ardith, Avalon, Rebecca, Elizabeth, Mary, Adelaide and Naomi and by two brothers, David and Lewis.

The celebration of Esther's life will be held on Wednesday, July 24th at the Battle Creek Country Club, 318 Country Club Drive 49015, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Esther's honor may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or charity of choice. The Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek is assisting Esther's family.