Esta C. Brehm
Esta C. Brehm, 105, formerly of New Berlin, IL born December 9, 1907 in Virden, IL, passed away Friday, April 5, 2013 at Rosewood Care Center, Edwardsville, IL. She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto P. and Mary nee Zorn Wenneborg; brothers, Edward, Walter, Norman, Oliver and Otto P. Wenneborg, Jr. and sisters, Louise Zeddies and Marie Murrell. Esta married William F. Brehm in 1931, he also preceded her in death on February 5, 1962.
She is survived by sons, E. Paul (Janet) Brehm of New Berlin, IL and David L. Brehm of Smithton, IL and daughter, M. Judy Balsters of Collinsville, IL; grandchildren, Marla (Matt) Talley, Gregg (Ashley) Koke, Lisa (Gregg) Bohnenstiehl, Phil (Marty) Koke, Brian (Tina) Koke, Allen (Beth) Brehm and Kevin Brehm; sixteen great grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren. Esta is also survived by her sister, Polly W. Roesch of Springfield, IL.
Esta’s dream was to be a teacher so she began her college education in 1927, at Illinois State University. She taught in the New Berlin School district and returned to ISU to finish her degree, graduating in 1969 at age 62 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Education. Esta also did private tutoring until age 91. Her enjoyment included quilting, crocheting, embroidery and crewel work, winning several awards at the County and State Fairs. Her love of family was extraordinary. Special thanks go to Hospice of Southern Illinois, especially Joy and Danielle.
Esta says, “Toodle Loo!”
Visitation: 9:30- 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at Christ the King Church.
Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at Christ the King Church with Reverend Richard Chiola officiating.
Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in New Berlin.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Third Age Living at St. John’s Hospital or New Berlin School District.
Jan Blacha posted on 1/12/20
Mrs. Esta C. Brehm sponsored our family from Germany circa 1951. My parents were Wlater and Bernice Blacha. My name is John Blacha the youngest son of my parents. I have two other brothers Chester and Walter who along with my parents work on her farm for approximately one year to pay off our debt for the immigration fee. I would love to hear back from the family. Thank you for taking us in.