Esther Viola Risberg, age 92 of Ellsworth, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 21, 2020 at Preferred Senior Living in Ellsworth. Esther was born August 19, 1927 in El Paso, WI, the daughter of Joseph and Agnes (Peterson) Jakes. She graduated from Ellsworth High School, the Class of 1947. Esther was united in marriage to Arnold James Maynard Risberg on January 1, 1957 in Cannon Falls, MN. Their marriage was blessed with four children, Allen, Rick, Julie and John.

Most important to Esther was her faith and her family. Esther was a devoted wife and mother, who lovingly took care of her family and home. Her grandchildren and extended family were especially dear to her heart. Esther appreciated nature, enjoyed flower and vegetable gardening, taking care of her yard, mushroom hunting, and picking berries. She always found joy in classical music and baking. Esther loved living on the farm, along with her pet goose and cats, who brightened her days. She always looked forward to having visitors, evenings, and beautiful sunsets.

Esther will remain in the hearts of her children, Allen (Nancy) Risberg, Rick (Julie) Risberg, Julie (Kevin) Davis, and John (Shawlly) Risberg; grandchildren, Melissa (Brent) Allen, Ryan (Beth) Risberg, Elena Risberg, Rhawnie (Troy) Closs, Noelle (Beau) Scilley, Tessa (Adam) Figi, Brieanna Davis, Gillian Davis, Ethan Risberg, and Bingjing Risberg; 5 great-grandchildren; brother, Phil Jakes; sister-in-law, Doris Jakes; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold; her parents, Joseph and Agnes Jakes; siblings, Edwin, Walter, Florence, and Alvin.

A Memorial Service will take place 1:00 pm Friday, February 28, 2020 at English Lutheran Church, 229 W. Main St., Ellsworth, with Pastor Jeff Smith officiating. A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will take place at a later date at Tabor Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Tabor Lutheran or English Lutheran Churches. Funeral services are entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home of Ellsworth (715) 273-4421