Esther W. Kneeland

Esther W. Kneeland died on June 25, 2012. Esther was born on October 21, 1919 to Verne and Orpha Wells and spent most of her childhood in Robinson, North Dakota. She graduated from Jamestown College, ND, with a degree in music. In 1942 she married Robert (Bob) Kneeland and after the war they settled in Tustin, California, where they raised five children.

Esther was an active wife and mother, supporting Bob in his career in Orange County as District Attorney and later as Superior Court judge. After their children grew up and left home, Esther and Bob moved to Corona del Mar, where they enjoyed a retirement of golf and travel.

Faith and family were the most important things in Esther’s life. Esther was known for her boundless energy and her family managerial skills. She gave her time and talents with generosity and love, always thinking of others first.

After Bob’s death in 2004, Esther split her time between California and Washington State. During the final 18 months of her life she was a resident of San Juan Villa memory care home in Port Townsend, WA.

Esther was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Robert, and her sister Jane Reed. She is survived by her brothers Robert and John Wells, her five children Ruth, Adelle, Doug, Dorothy and Mary Jane, and by 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Tustin Presbyterian Church, Tustin, California on July 21, 2012 at 11:00 AM.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Robert and Esther Kneeland Scholarship Fund at Jamestown College, 6000 College Lane, Jamestown, ND 58405, or your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter.