Esther L. Grueneich, age 87 of Bismarck, ND, formerly of Washburn, ND, died Monday, January 16, 2006 at the Baptist Home in Bismarck.

Funeral Services: 10:30 AM Saturday, January 21, 2006
Washburn Baptist Church - Washburn, ND
Rev. Rick Torkelson, Officiating
Interment: Washburn Baptist Cemetery
Visitation: Friday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Goetz Funeral Home - Washburn
Saturday, 1 hour prior to time of service at the church

Esther was born January 26, 1918 at Regina, MT the daughter of Fred & Alvena (Schacher) Keck. She was raised on a farm near Washburn, ND and attended rural school. Esther graduated from Washburn High School in 1936. She continued her education at the North Dakota State Agricultural College in Fargo for one semester and two years at the Minot State Teachers College. She received an elementary teaching degree and taught at a country school near Falkirk, ND for two years and at a country school near the Grueneich farmstead for one year. Esther married Edward E. Grueneich on March 22, 1941 at Washburn. The couple made their home on a farm near Washburn for many years and raised 5 children. They moved to Bismarck, ND in October 1990. Edward passed away in February 1999. Esther was a member of the Washburn Baptist Church since 1934 and served as a pianist, organist, and Sunday School teacher. Esther loved God and used her creative talents and musical skills to serve Him. She was an excellent pianist. She loved her family and friends with unconditional love and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was her greatest delight. Her relationships with extended family and friends was a priority. She loved the farm and the outdoors and nature, and taught that love to her family.

She is survived by 3 Sons and Daughters-in-Law: Wayne & Bette Grueneich of Hazen, ND, Dennis & Sue Grueneich of Champlin, MN, W. Vernon & Marvy Grueneich of Bismarck, ND; 2 Daughters & Sons-in-Law: Betty & Lyle Harter of Pierre, SD, Linda & John Schwindt of Evanston, WY; 14 Grandchildren & 7 Great Grandchildren;
3 Brothers: Dr. Ted (Lola) Keck, Rueben Keck, & Al (Agnes) Keck;
1 Sister: Adeline (Lance) Davenport; & 2 Sisters-in-Law: Donna Keck & Ginny Keck.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband (Edward), & 3 brothers (Gilbert, Bud, & Arnie), & 1 sister-in-law (Helen Keck)