Esther Mae Freese

Esther Mae Freese, 91, of Lincoln, passed away July 4, 2026, at St. Clara’s Manor, Lincoln.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, July 13, 2026, at Zion Cemetery.

Esther was born July 21, 1934, in Sac City, Iowa, the daughter of Drew Staton and Hazel (Carter). She married Robert D. Freese on June 28, 1953, in Sac City, Iowa. He preceded her in death in 1975. John Berberich was her companion for more than 40 years. He also preceded her in death. Esther retired from the State of Illinois after 20 years in data. She was then a bookkeeper for Robert and Frieda Huelskoetter for several years. She attended Faith Lutheran Church and was a member of the Lincoln Businesswoman’s Association. Esther enjoyed crocheting and sudoku.

Survivors include her daughters Bonnie Crickman and Carla DePoy, 11 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Robert, her sons Doug Freese and John A. Freese, her companion John Berberich, her brothers Charles, Leland, and Kenny, and her sisters Alma, Lois, and Darlene.

Holland Barry & Bennett Funeral Home in Lincoln has been entrusted with her care.