Esther Maria Forde

Esther Maria Forde

Center Point

Esther Maria Forde, 93, of 41 Klemish Circle, Center Point IA, passed away Wednesday evening in her home, with family present. Her cremated remains will be united with her husband’s and placed in a Decorah location. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Maria was born September 7, 1930, in Estherville, IA, the daughter of Esther and Clarence Kurtz. She grew up and attended school in Estherville. Maria moved to Cedar Rapids with a friend and later met her future husband, Forrest, at a dance. They were married in Decorah on September 25, 1949.

Survivors include 2 children, Linda (AJ) Johnson-Thoma and David Forde. Four grandchildren; Danielle Gearhart (Mike), Joshua Johnson (Jodi), James Johnson (Amy), and David Forde Jr. Seven great grandchildren; Mattie & Morie Johnson, Sophia & Forrest Gearhart, Ella, Cooper & Finely Johnson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, 5 brothers and 2 sisters.

She was a manager of a local dry cleaners for many years, belonged to and held numerous positions in several organizations, Eastern Star, White Shrine, Amaranth, Daughters of the Nile. Maria enjoyed going to the casino, gardening, traveling, and telling stories of famous people she had the opportunity to meet along the way. She loved her neighbors and friends – they were family to her, and all those who stopped in, to visit with her, it was greatly appreciated. She will be missed at annual gatherings and Christmas parties.

Maria’s family wishes to thank the UnityPoint Hospice team for all their visits, and support during Maria’s illness. They were outstanding in their care for Maria.

As mom frequently said, “What will be, will be” and then it WAS!

Online condolences may be left at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.