Ethel Mae Kesterson

Ethel Mae Kesterson

Ethel Mae Kesterson, one of Kent’s eldest citizens passed away on July 20, 2009 at the age of 102 years. Daughter of Jay and Jessie Smalley, Ethel was born in Latham, Kansas on December 20, 1906 where she lived with her husband Ival Kesterson until 1938 when they packed up their four children, Eugene, Wilma, Bill, Russell, and the family dog to move to Kent, Washington.Ethel continued to raise their children on her own after the passing of her husband in 1947. She worked 13 years as a mill wright for Todd Shipyards, later, she worked 10 years for Farmans Hardware, then in 1973, finally retiring her working career after 12 additional years as a clerk with Benson Center Pharmacy. Ethel enjoyed traveling, camping, gardening, and had many talents ranging from making beautiful afghans to creating delectable food recipes that her family enjoyed throughout the years.Ethel is survived by her daughter Wilma Turner, several grand-children, great and great great grandchildren. A celebration of her life will be held by graveside service on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Hillcrest Burial Park in Kent.