Esther C. Cole, 97, of rural Alvada died at 10:54 p.m. Tuesday, July 21,2020. Esther was born in Wyandot County on May 14, 1923, to the late William and Ethel (Kloepfer) Walter. On Jan. 7, 1942 Esther married Carlton M. Cole and he died on July 6, 2015.

The couple had three sons: Gary M. (Peggy) Cole of Prescott, Ariz,; Edwin D. (Judy) Cole of rural Alvada; daughters: Jeanie McCree of Naples Fla., Sue Cook of Perrysburg; and Debra (Ned) Niswander of Bluffton.

She is also survived by 18 grandchildren.

Esther was a longtime member of West Independence United Methodist Church.

A funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, at the West Independence United Methodist Church where the family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Pastor Mark Weatherman will officiate and burial will follow in Hickory Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made in memory of Esther to the West Independence United Methodist Church or a charity of the donor's choice.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the family recommends wearing a mask when attending services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Coldren-Crates Funeral Home. Online condolences can be expressed to the family by visiting coldrencrates.com.