Esther Meseke passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Friday, February 14, 2025.  Esther entered into rest at the age of 98.

Esther was born on May 7th, 1926, in Elberta, Alabama to parents Arthur and Katherine Lindoerfer.  The Lindoerfer family moved to California in 1934.  Esther graduated from San Leandro High school in 1945. After completing business courses at Meritt College, she acquired a bookkeeping position at a Millinery Boutique in San Francisco.  She met her husband to be Lehman (Lee) Charles Meseke at a Serviceman Social gathering hosted at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.  In December 1950, Esther married Lee in San Leandro where the two began their life together.  In 1962, Esther and Lee moved their family to Livermore, California and, in 1984, relocated to Manteca.  

   In addition to being a devoted wife and mother Esther worked as a seamstress and in childcare. She participated in women’s service organizations, cub scouts, church and volunteer activities.  Esther and Lee were active members at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Livermore and United Lutheran Church in Manteca.  Esther and Lee enjoyed offering their time in service to others; a favorite of theirs was the San Joaquin County Food Bank and the Delta Blood Bank.  Her hobbies and interests included sewing, needle work, cooking, baking (bunny cookies), crafts, gardening, playing Chinese checkers and dominos, bible studies, genealogy research, and travel.  Esther is fondly remembered for her many artistic creations over the years.  Some of the most treasured keepsakes she gifted to friends and family were her canvas art crosses and her lovable and charming sock monkeys!

   Esther joins her beloved husband Lee Meseke of 60 years, her sister Margaret Bender and grandson Andy Meseke in heaven.  She is survived by daughter Michelle (Robert) Lundbom, daughter Marcia (Dave) Vingl, son Danny (Lori) Meseke and daughter Julie (Andrew) Sanchez, grandchildren include Brian Lundbom, Chris (Heather) Meseke, Chuck (Michelle) Meseke, Rachel (James) Faria, Nicholas Sanchez and Jordan Sanchez.  Esther’s seven great-grandchildren include Emalyne, Wyatt and Autumn Lundbom, Katarina and Kaley Meseke, Andrei Meseke and Keira and Kenny Faria.   Esther was the epitome of kindness and grace.  She truly enjoyed being with family and friends.  Her smile and giggle were a ray of sunshine for all!

   A ”Celebration of Life” service for Esther will be held at United Lutheran Church of Manteca on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 11:30 am.  Her final resting place will be at the Chapel of Chimes in Hayward, California.  

   In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting contributions in honor of Esther Meseke to United Lutheran Church of Manteca or to a favorite charity of one’s choice. 

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin

Wednesday, February 6, 2025