ESTHER L. GRIFFIN
ESTHER L. GRIFFIN
Esther L. Griffin, 88, passed away in her home Jan. 27, 2023. Esther was born May 12, 1934, in Ellendale, ND, to the late Belle and Frederick Schaller.
She grew up on a farm with her family and in high school was class president, inducted into the National Honor Society, twirling majorette, sang in the choir, played the clarinet in band, and acted in numerous plays as part of the drama team. After high school, Esther married her high school sweetheart, Marvin Griffin, Sept. 12, 1952, and shared 69 wonderful years together. The couple lived on the east coast early in their marriage while Marvin was enlisted in the Navy, and they moved to Milwaukee in the 1950s to start their family. Throughout their marriage, the couple enjoyed traveling to state parks, hosting gatherings and spending time with family and friends.
After retiring, Esther and Marvin built their dream home in rural Hixton, WI. There Esther tended to her numerous gardens, hiked, and enjoyed the slower pace of life that came with her well-deserved retirement. Esther had an incredible gift for music and served as the lead organist for Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, filling the church with beautiful music every Sunday for nearly 25 years.
She loved spending time with family and was the best “Grandma G” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating everlasting memories and traditions that are now being passed down to future Griffin generations.
Esther is survived by three grandchildren: Michael (Danielle) Griffin of Brookfield, WI; Jamie Griffin of Madison, WI; and Megan Griffin of Mason, OH; 8 great-grandchildren; and sister Rosalie Weltz.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Griffin; her parents; son Michael Griffin Sr.; sisters Mable and Harriet; and a still-born brother.
What a wonderful life Esther lived! We are thankful to have had front row seats to witness such steadfast love she gave every day to her family. While she will be forever missed, we also find peace knowing she has been reunited with the love of her life, Marvin. May you rest in peace, sweet Gram.