Esther RAE

With hearts full of love and a touch of mischief, we say goodbye to Esther Rae, who passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, just days shy of her 100th birthday.

Born on September 5, 1925, in the small prairie town of Herbert, Saskatchewan, Esther lived a life so full it could hardly be contained in a single century. The world changed a lot during her 99 years—but if you asked her, she’d say she changed it right back, one sharp comment and a little giggle at the same time.

Feisty, fearless, and famously fond of black coffee and stronger opinions, Esther was the kind of woman who spoke her mind and stood her ground but always welcomed company into her home. She raised three children, buried her husband, survived a war and the Great Depression, outlived more friends than she cared to count, and still found time to send cards with always a short note, make phone calls to catch up with those she hadn’t talked to in a while, and argue passionately about anything she felt was worthy at the time.

To know Esther was to love her—and occasionally to get scolded by her. She was deeply loyal, endlessly generous, and funny in that way that caught you off guard. She marched well into her 80s, kept her driver’s license longer than she probably should have, and claimed the secret to a long life was apple cider vinegar, dark chocolate, and a glass of wine now and then.

Esther is survived by her children: Rick (Salma), Carla (Steve), and Dee (Joe); five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, and a devoted circle of friends and neighbours who became family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim Rae and by her three sisters and brother, who were no doubt waiting with open arms.

Her life will be honoured with a Celebration of Life on Friday, September 5, at 3:30pm, at Rocky Mountain Village in the Serenity Room. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you do something kind for someone who doesn’t expect it—Esther always felt that was the best kind of gift.

Raise a glass (or a coffee mug) in her honor. She’d want you to laugh, tell a good story, and maybe start a little trouble—just to keep things interesting.

Rest well, Esther. You earned it.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to the nurses and care aides at Rocky Mountain Village for the wonderful care they gave to our mom where she kept everyone on their toes. She received so much love and genuine care.

www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com