Helen M. Eshleman

Helen Cook Eshleman, 100, passed peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus at Timbercrest Senior Living on Wednesday, November 24, 2021, a celebration she looked forward to. Born in Dekalb County, Indiana on October 18, 1921, she was the daughter of Sam and Nettie (Miller) Cook. As a child she fell in love with reading and thus became a strong student in all subjects. She was a 1940 graduate of Garrett High School. In 1944 she earned degrees in Music and English Education from Manchester College. She married Isaac James Eshleman in July 1947 and taught school while he finished Seminary in Chicago. Together they shared a life of ministry across the United States, with the Church of the Brethren in North Webster IN, Bridgewater VA, Los Angeles CA, Denver CO, Trotwood OH and Fort Wayne IN. She contributed to the life of each church through her musical talent, directing choirs of all ages, playing piano and devoting hours of planning for worship services over the years. Helen was a tireless worker, teaching elementary school music in the Dayton Public Schools and also in East Allen County Schools in Fort Wayne, retiring in 1990. She was a very well respected and loved educator. She devoted her teaching career and life's passion to music, but never went a day without a book in her hand. She was an avid gardener and had beautiful yards, meticulously designed for all seasons. Gardening was her escape and she was known as the “plant lady” in her neighborhood. She still managed to find time to cook, can and freeze goods for the family. She loved preparing meals for her children and grandchildren. Helen was an excellent listener and faithful friend, and was held in high regard by many who knew her. She faced her years at Timbercrest and declining abilities with grace; always compliant, kind and grateful for the excellent care she received. Her faith never wavered. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 62 years, I. James Eshleman in April 2010; their son, Kent; brother, Loren Cook; and sister, Virginia Cook White. She is survived by her brother, Lee (Marilyn) Cook of Auburn; and 3 adoring daughters and their families, all of Fort Wayne, Jantina Eshleman, Anne (Ted) Tiernon and Christine (Philip) Dwire; four grandchildren, Brian (Whitney Feasel) Dwire, Emily (Rex) Smith, Taylor (Paige) Tiernon and Tracey (Ben Watson) Tiernon; and 9 nieces and nephews. The Celebration of Life Service is 10:00 am Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at Klaehn, Fahl & Melton Funeral Home, 6424 Winchester Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46819. Visitation is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Monday, December 6, 2021 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Timbercrest Senior Living, 2201 East Street, North Manchester, 46962 or Manchester University College of Fine Arts 604 E College Ave, North Manchester, IN 46962. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals.com for the Eshleman family.