Esther Nimmow

MADISON/WHITEWATER -

Esther Marie Nimmow, age 92, passed away peacefully in Whitewater on Tuesday, October 3. She was born on May 26, 1925 in Baraboo, WI to the late William and Marie (Bendien) Knuth.

She grew up in Rock Springs and graduated from Baraboo High School. She and the late Waldemar "Walt" Nimmow were blessed with 58 years of marriage before his death in 2016. She was a member of Mount Olive Lutheran Church. Esther served as head of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association and later was a dietician for two residence halls at UW Madison. She and Walt were devout Badger and Packer fans, as evidenced by their "tastefully" Badger and Packer-themed bathrooms. A true patriot, Esther devoted much of her life to serving Veterans. She was recognized for 21,000+ hours and over 45 years of volunteering at the VA Hospitals. In addition, she and Walt dedicated thousands of hours to the American Legion and spent decades of Memorial Day weekends decorating the graves of veterans. Her greatest honor was an invitation to the White House for a reception hosted by President Reagan and Vice-President George H.W. Bush. Esther was a wonderful cook, card player and bowler, once winning the Wisconsin Women's Senior Bowler Championship trophy. She also enjoyed traveling, knitting for loved ones, water aerobics and spending time with family. She maintained her strong and feisty character and spirit until her final hours.

Esther is survived by her beloved sons, Ted Koenecke (Mary) of Minneapolis and Bill Nimmow (Sally) of Delavan, her brother Louis of the Wisconsin Dells, six grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 21 at 10am, followed by a memorial service at 11am at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 6021 University Avenue, Madison. Private interment will follow at St. John's Cemetery in Rock Springs.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the Glenwood Memory Care Center in Whitewater for their loving care of Esther in her final years. They were always able to generate one of Esther's bright and memorable smiles. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Badger Honor Flight organization.