Esther Baxter

1972 - 2021

 Esther Maria Baxter (nee Lauwen) passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 2, 2021 at the age of 48 years. 

 As a result of the restrictions regarding COVID 19 and the government recommended restrictions, a private funeral service was held at Southland Funeral Chapel on Sunday, April 11, 2021 with Shelly Bassett officiating. 

 Esther leaves behind her husband Gordon Baxter and her seven children Andrew, Natasha, Ashton, Tyler (Robin), Joshua, Maya and Karson. She is also survived by her mom Marleen Lauwen; brother David (Cindy) Lauwen and their children Kellen and Randon; brother Richard (Stefanie) Lauwen and their children Rixyn and Nevyn; as well as Gordon's children Rachel, Alannah and Alexandra (daughter Eliana) and Gordon’s brother Derek Baxter.

 She was predeceased by her daddy Chris Lauwen; grandparents Harry and Koosje Lauwen, Joos and Els Steyne. 

 Esther was born on September 12, 1972 in Emmeloord, The Netherlands the first born to Chris and Marleen Lauwen. The Lauwen's emigrated from the Netherlands to Canada in 1974 and later settled in Taber where her brothers David and Richard were born. Esther's love for animals started at a young age and she loved being outside feeding and taking care of them. Her friends lovingly referred to her as "Frizzy" in her younger years, as she always had a love/hate relationship with her curly hair. 

 Esther's children were her pride and joy and she could often be seen at their various sporting events cheering them on. She had a very infectious laugh and was always excited about something. She was very passionate about her career at Lamb Weston and was always willing to learn new things or teach others to do the various jobs that she had while she worked there. Esther loved to travel to Holland, where she spent time with her relatives who still reside there. Esther was a very giving person and always found joy in giving to others. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her and never forgotten. 

 If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Esther's name may be made directly to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 426 - 6 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 2C9 www.cmha.ca.