Esther Ann Botulinski

Esther Ann Botulinski died on April 28th, 2015 in St Petersburg, Florida. She was 93 years old. Esther was born on May 19th, 1922 in Rahway, New Jersey to Alfred and Pauline Harraden.

Esther grew up quickly and worked locally at the Merck Pharmaceutical Company as a young woman.

She met the love of her life, August (Gus) Botulinski, while ice skating on the Rahway River; after a classic courtship they were married in 1942 at the First Presbyterian Church, Rahway. Shortly after that, military service called and Gus joined the Navy; he served in Naval combat in the Pacific Theater in WWII for the next three years.

Esther, Gus and their three children lived in New Jersey until 1959 when they all hopped into the trusty family station wagon and crossed the country pulling a U-Haul trailer; it was a memorable adventure. They settled in the Snoqualmie Valley of Washington State and raised their family in several cities in the State, to include Snoqualmie, Carnation, Fall City and Rice.

Esther was employed by the Sundstrand Corporation of Redmond where she etched printed circuit boards for aircraft and satellites, to include the first Lunar Orbiter. Gus worked for Boeing and as a senior aerospace machinist built the outer sphere of the first Lunar Orbiter. So Esther and Gus complemented each other in more than being the world’s best parents and spouses. Later in life they retired to Roseburg, Oregon. Esther was preceded in death by Gus on January 7th, 2009. They had been very happily married for 67 years. Esther and Gus are now together again; they are enjoying eternal peace and love, and watching over us all.

Esther’s passions were her family and she loved caring for her husband, children, and grandchildren. She always had a beautiful garden. And she had a huge heart for animals; another of her passions was her daily 3 mile walk, which she continued until she was 90 years old.

Esther is survived by her sons Tom Botulinski of Treasure Island, FL and Steve Botulinski of Tacoma, WA; and her daughter Carol Neptune of Hoquiam, WA. Esther dearly loved and enjoyed her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held with close family and friends this coming summer.