Lola M Esterly

Lola M. Esterly, 91, of Duluth, formerly of Two Harbors, died Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Hilltop Health and Rehabilitation in Duluth.

She was born July 31, 1933 to John and Florence (Coutier) Schrum in Willow River. Lola graduated from Two Harbors High School in 1951, and married Philip A. Esterly that same year. They lived at four corners in Waldo until 1977, and Lola was employed at Lake View Nursing Home in Two Harbors until 1980. After moving to Duluth, she worked at First Bank of Duluth as a switch board operator until her retirement. During retirement, Lola worked as an alterationist in Two Harbors. She was a member of Alliance Church of Duluth, and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Lola enjoyed family time at the Dahlgren cabin on Stone Lake, sewing, berry-picking, attending her children’s sporting activities, traveling, time with her grandchildren, and visiting her stepchildren. 

Lola was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Philip; son, Philip Esterly Jr.; sisters, Muriel Dahlgren and Joanne Johnson; long-time partner, Darrell Coleman; and sons-in-law, Jerry Fleischman and Randy Rivers.

She is survived by her sons, Terry (Janet) Esterly and John Esterly; daughters, Vicara Rivers, and Lori Esterly; grandchildren, Jason, Davena, Philip III, Ian, Caitlyn, and Journey; five great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.