Esther Wilma Clemans

Esther Wilma Clemans, 97, of Alburnett, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026, (one week before her 98th birthday) at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In agreement with her wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will greet friends from 4 - 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Marion, Iowa. A Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the funeral home, with Pastor Dan Peterson officiating. Inurnment will follow at Jordans Grove Cemetery in rural Central City, Iowa.

Esther was born on May 23, 1928, in Alburnett, the daughter of Harry and Emma (Hoeck) Simmen, who both sadly died when she was a young child. She was then adopted by Eugene and Rowena (Proctor) Estill. She was a graduate of Alburnett High School. On July 3, 1949, Esther was united in marriage to Merrill Lavern Clemans in Alburnett. For 87 years, Esther was an active member of the Alburnett Christian Church. She was also a member of the Alburnett Historical Society and Alburnett Garden Club. Esther will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Esther is survived and lovingly remembered by her two children, Pamela (Bill) Crosby of Marion, and Janna (Ed) Crosby of Robins, Iowa; four grandchildren, Theresa (Jeff) Parkison of Swisher, Iowa, Daniel Crosby of Swisher, Jeff (Melissa) Crosby of Ankeny, Iowa, and Jill (Adam) Ironside of Cedar Rapids; and six great-grandchildren, Carly and Cortney Parkison, Conner and Carter Crosby, and Isabelle and Iris Ironside.

In addition to her biological parents, she was also preceded in death by her adoptive parents; husband, Merrill Clemans; and brothers, Ralph Simmen and Robert Simmen.

The family wishes to extend their appreciation and sincere gratitude to Marilyn James and Patty Shaffer for their continued friendship, endless visits, love, and compassion they gave to Esther throughout the years.

Memorials in Esther’s memory may be directed to the Alburnett Christian Church or the Alburnett Historical Society.