Mrs. Esther Marie Dirkse Hargrove

Esther Marie Dirkse Hargrove was born in Grand Haven Michigan to Jim and Margaret Dirkse in December of 1943. She loved nature and especially enjoyed her days at Camp Roger in the woods. She had a strong work ethic helping her Dad make the marking tags for his job at Challenger Porcelain and picking blueberries for her Uncles during the summer. She still made time for Grand Haven’s beautiful beaches every summer. She was the middle child and enjoyed pestering her brothers Peter and Warren, earning the nickname “Esther the Pester.”

She graduated second in her Western Michigan Christian High School class and earned her Bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate from Calvin College. She still has many friends from each of her schools. She taught elementary school in Alabama, Illinois, and Florida and was proud to have helped shape the lives of her pupils.

She married Mike Hargrove and lived in five states and Canada as they served in his Air Force assignments. They had two beautiful children, Valerie and Walter, who were the focus and pride of her life. Esther loved cats, but could not keep one due to Mike’s allergies, so she kept a string of small animals including mice, fireflies, pigeons, hamsters, and snakes which ostensibly belonged to the kids. Her last beloved pet was Stanley, the American Eskimo dog, who shared many walks and quiet times with her.

Esther had several hobbies, but her favorite was sewing. She was a meticulous craftsman who made clothes for herself and family members. Her creations included things for daily use and fancy costumes.

Throughout her life Esther was a woman of strong faith in the Lord Jesus. She did not fear death because she would be joining His wedding feast.

Anyone wishing to commemorate her life may do so with a contribution under her name to Western Michigan Christian High School at 455 E Ellis Rd; Muskegon, MI 49441.

Arrangements under the direction of Mountain View Mortuary, Colorado Springs, CO.