Obituaries : Esther Ann (Soderbloom) Hite

A beautiful lady, Esther Ann (Soderbloom) Hite, was welcomed to her eternal joy in heaven on Sunday, July 9, 2023. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 15 at Van Steenhuyse-Teahen Funeral Home, Vinton with Senior Pastor Paul Hennings officiating. Friends may visit with the family prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday. Private family committal.

On December 14, 1928, Esther Ann was born in Laurium, MI, the daughter of Rev. Carl and Alice (Carlson) Soderbloom. She lived her early life childhood in Calumet, MI, subsequently moving to Vinton where she remained for the rest of her life.

Esther Ann was surrounded by her Swedish heritage. Her father had immigrated to America from Smaland in the early years of the 20th century. She attended school in Vinton, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1946. She worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company for more than 30 years. She married John Hite on December 14, 1968, her 40th birthday, stating she wanted to make certain John would remember her birthday and their anniversary. Together they made their home on the farm in rural Vinton and enjoyed many years of sun-cations in Florida, particularly so John could watch the Daytona 500 race. A woman of great taste, Esther Ann delighted in shopping which offered her many wonderful shops to explore. Esther Ann was a stylish lady. Her jewelry, clothing and shoes were carefully coordinated. Her outfits were classy and most often in shades of purple. One only had to walk into her home to know she loved purple!

Esther Ann was a woman of great faith. As a young child she learned from her father and mother. She had a devout servanthood for the Lord and others in need. All through her life, Esther Ann studied the Word and shared her faith with others. Her prayer life was active and full of compassion and concern. One of her prized possessions was a glass bowl in which her father baptized her. She was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Marion.

Preceding Esther Ann was her beloved husband, John in 2006; her parents; and many family members and dear friends.

She is survived by Janet Kearns of Cedar Rapids who became a daughter to her, and Janet's family; several cousins including Brent Howard of Eddyville and Julie (Scott) Domogalia of Askov, MN; and many dear life-long friends she loved who shared her life.

Memorials may be directed to the charity of choice in memory of Esther Ann.

Condolences may be left at www.teahenfuneralhome.com.