Esther Mae Koehl, 87, of Fairbury, passed away peacefully at 11:30 pm, Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at her home surrounded by her family.

Her funeral will be held at 10:00am, Monday, January 25, 2016 at the Apostolic Christian Church, Fairbury. Ministers of the church will be officiating. Burial will be in Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery, Fairbury. Visitation will be from 2-5:00 pm, Sunday, January 24, 2016 at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury and 9-9:45am, Monday at the church.

Esther was born in Forrest on August 13, 1928, the daughter of John and Bertha (Metz) Maurer. She married Raymond "Dick" R. Koehl on October 19, 1947 in Fairbury. He survives in Fairbury.

Also surviving are; her daughter, Vicky (Douglas) Stewart of East Peoria; son Kevin (Marlene) of St. Johns, FL; grandchildren, Sean (Gloria) Koehl of San Jose, CA, Dr. Sarah (Dr. Miguel) Ramirez of Peoria, Brian (Jaclyn) Koehl of Santee, CA, and Blake (Erica) Stewart of St. Louis, MO. 11 Great-Grandchildren, Jacob, Emily, Rylan, Finnian, Diego, Liliana Esther, Evan, Elise, Clair, Natalie, and Elle; and brother, Willis (Rita) Maurer of Fairbury.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Vera Foster, and a brother, Marvin Maurer.

Esther graduated from Saunemin High School in 1946. In 1948 she went to work for Dr. Marshall. Later, she joined Fairbury Medical Group and worked for 28 physicians over the years, retiring in 1993. She was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church of Fairbury.

Her greatest joy was being with her family. Although they lived miles apart they had many special memories of time shared. Her great-grandchildren were very special to her and she loved them dearly.

Esther's friends, family and church community meant so much to her. She was so grateful for the visits, prepared meals, prayers and support over the years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Fairview Haven Retirement Community or OSF Eastern Region Hospice.