Esther Irene Des Jardins

Esther Irene Des Jardins passed away on August 21, 2022, in Harbor Springs, Michigan, at Bay Bluffs at the age of 100.

The daughter of Ray and Phoebe Walker, Esther was born and raised in St. Ignace, Michigan. She met her lifelong partner and husband, Kenneth Des Jardins, while working at Bentley’s Diner in downtown St. Ignace. Before starting a family, she worked as a “Rosie the Riveter Girl” in the Saginaw Michigan area during WWII, while Kenneth completed his service in the US Navy.

Over the next 50 years they raised their two boys Terry and Marc in Inkster, Michigan. During
this time, Esther was very involved in breeding, raising, and selling show quality dogs-Cocker Spaniels and Toy Poodles. Throughout the 1970s, she owned and managed the Golden Poodle hair grooming shop in Dearborn, Michigan.

Esther loved the outdoors, boating, and square dancing. She especially loved playing cards, eating pizza, and drinking a couple of beers with her family and friends. During the past several years, she lived in Harbor Springs, Michigan, and enjoyed her family.

Esther is survived by her son, Terry Des Jardins of Savoy, Illinois; four grandchildren, Jennifer Likens, Michelle Des Jardins, Nate Des Jardins, and Joe Currie; and six great-grandchildren, Katie Likens, Alex Likens, Ashley Vega, Destinee Wilkins-Des Jardins, Jacob Currie, and Carter Currie.

Esther is preceded by her parents, Ray and Phoebe; husband, Kenneth; son, Marc Des Jardins; and siblings, Hazel Campbell, Del Walker, Ray Walker and Marie Smith.

Private Family Visitation and Graveside Service will be held.