Esther Mackey

Esther Agnes Mackey

Esther A. Mackey, 94, longtime resident of Hibbing formerly of Cedar, IA died Sunday, April 14, 2019 at New Journey Residence in Biwabik, MN.  She was born March 12, 1925 to Ray and Ida Belle (Moore) Witt in Fremont, IA.  Esther attended school in Cedar, IA and later graduated from American Technology School.  Esther enlisted in WAC/Women’s Army Corps, on March 23, 1945.  She later met John G, Mackey at Ft. McCoy in Sparta, WI.  They married on December 6, 1945 in Sparta.  Esther and John moved to Hibbing in 1945 where they raised their family.  Esther was employed first as an airplane mechanic at Des Moines Airport, then Singer Sewing Machine in Virginia, MN, and finally with Wesley United Methodist Church as secretary and parish worker retiring in July of 1985.  After the death of her husband John of 38 years, Esther married James Petrick in Hibbing on August 20, 1985, until his death in 2006.  Esther’s life was devoted to her husband, children, and grandchildren.  She was very active in numerous Methodist Women’s groups, including the UMW.  She was a member of the VFW, hobby club, Hibbing Happy Twirlers, 4-H, and various bridge clubs.  She also loved her garden.

She is survived by her children, Ron (Becky) Mackey, Lakeland, MN, and Anita Daucunas, Boulder, CO, three grandchildren, Kari Mackey, Biwabik, Daniel (Shannon) Mackey, Lakeland, and Jenna (Pablo) Daucunas, Boulder, CO, five great-grandchildren with one on the way, Carson, John, Nora, and Ella Mackey, and Alana Bles, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, John Mackey, and Jim Petrick, two brothers, and two sisters.

Funeral services for Esther will be 11:00 am, Monday, April 22, 2019 at Wesley United Methodist Church in Hibbing.  The Rev. Andrew Petter will officiate.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Monday.  Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery of Hibbing.  Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing.

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit us at www.doughertyofhibbing.com.