Esther Ragan, 83

| March 13, 2024 1:00 AM

Esther Irene (Dole) Ragan, 83, was called to heaven when she passed away with family by her side March 6, 2024, in Omaha, Neb.

Esther was born April 24, 1940, in Greybull, Wyo., the daughter of Darold (Pete) and Helen Dole. Esther was a caring person who touched the lives of all who knew her.

Esther married her husband, Bobby (Bob) Ragan, on Nov. 17, 1957, in Sandpoint, Idaho, and moved to Dixon, Calif., where they started a family. In 1972, they moved to Tekamah, Neb., with their two sons where they lived for many years. Esther was a member of the Baptist Church and had a successful dog grooming business. She was also active with the Burt County Museum, creating many contributions to the Fur and Feathers Fashion Show including a beautiful, lined cloak made out of the velvet curtains from the school auditorium that is still on display today in the museum.

Her love for sewing was also portrayed through many elaborate costumes she lovingly made for her grandchildren over the years. Esther took so much pride and joy in her sons and grandchildren. She enjoyed the gift of giving, each year making elaborate easter baskets not only for her own grandchildren but also to children in her neighborhood among other things.

Anyone who met Esther knew she loved all things “grand and glorious.” This was shown in her beloved antique shop that she ran for many years in Sandpoint. She was a fantastic cook, and her fried chicken was legendary!

She is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Ethel Dawson.

Esther is survived by her husband, Bob, of 66 years; two sons Ron (Deb) Ragan, and Scott (Shelly) Ragan; and four grandchildren Sarah (Patrick) Olson, Elizabeth (Kenneth) Latoszek, Nick (Kara) Ragan, and Mitchell Ragan; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Daroldene Lewis (Dole); and brothers, Warren (Susan) Dole and David Dole.

A celebration of life will be set at a later date. If desired, friends may make a memorial contribution to the Burt County Museum at 111 N. 13th St., Tekamah, NE 68061. Condolences may be sent to the family at 4614 S 175th Ave, Omaha, NE 68135.