Esther Winona Aalbers

Esther Winona Aalbers
Altoona, Iowa

Esther Winona was born on October 19, 1931 to Neal and Minnie (Den Hartog) Jabaai near Monroe, Iowa and passed away on Friday, April 18, 2025 in Altoona, Iowa. She then moved with her family to the farm east of Prairie City and attended rural elementary grades at Warren Grove School through 8th grade. She graduated in 1950 from Prairie City High School. After graduation she was employed at Bankers Life Insurance in Des Moines, Iowa.

On February 14, 1951 she was united in marriage to Robert W. Aalbers at the First Reformed Church in Prairie City and they then went on to farm in the Altoona area. To this union 2 children were born, Danny Wayne and Kristin Sue. Esther was a devoted wife and mother, who enjoyed caring for her family, their home and helping on the farm along with the many activities of Danny and Kristin as they grew up.

After their graduation from high school Esther was employed at JC Penny in the office for 22 years, retiring in 1995. After the sudden death of her daughter, Kristin Sue on October 20, 1987, Esther spent much of her time with her grandchildren, Kari, Bradley and Matthew.

From a small child, Esther grew up attending the First Reformed Church and all of its programs and continued to be a lifelong member.

Her greatest joy was time spent with all of her family. Also, traveling with Bob and the many friendships that were made over time.

Esther is survived by her son, Danny W. (Ronda) Aalbers; son-in-law, Michael R. (Cheryl) Johnston; grandchildren, Kari (Joshua) Jackson, Bradley (Margaret) Johnston, Matthew (Sarah) Johnston, Jenny Morse and Brian (Heather) Cousins; great grandchildren, Samantha, Kamden, Callen, Mabel, Lilly, Ethan and Isabelle; great great grandson, Khizar, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband of 67 years, Robert W. Aalbers in 2018; daughter, Kristin Sue Johnston in 1987; sisters, Matilda (Albert) VanZee and Berdine (John) Breed; brother, Leonard (Leona) Jabaai and Marvin Jabaai.

Memorials may be given in her name to the First Reformed Church, 300 E. 5th Street, Prairie City, Iowa 50228.

The family would like to invite everyone to a time of food and fellowship following the burial.

Family will greet guest from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., on Friday, April 25, 2025 at the First Reformed Church, 300 E. 5th Street, Prairie City, Iowa. Following visitation there will be a funeral service at 11:00 a.m., at the church. Esther will be laid to rest at Waveland Cemetery in Prairie City, Iowa.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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