December 12, 1936 – January 3, 2014. Esther (Hojem) Hoiland peacefully passed away in her home following a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Esther was born December 12, 1936 in Lesterville, South Dakota to Edor L. Hojem and Myrtle C. (Cayce) Hojem. She was the youngest of ten children. Following the death of her mother at the age of four, she and her father travelled between Idaho, California, and South Dakota living with older siblings and their families. Consequently, her education was constantly interrupted from year to year. Her formal education culminated in the eighth grade in Kellogg, Idaho. She later obtained her GED through North Idaho College. Despite her childhood adversities, Esther was a tenacious learner and the one to beat in all word games.

On February 6, 1954 Esther married her lifetime sweetheart and dance partner, Carl F. Hoiland. They set up residence in the 4th of July Canyon, east of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho where they raised their four children and lived out the remainder of their lives.

Esther was known for creative talents in cake decorating, quilting, sewing, and knitting, and was celebrated for her delicious homemade pies and beautiful wedding cakes. Her house was always open to family, friends and neighbors who were the recipients of many a home-cooked meal and an unending supply of coffee, cookies and conversation.

She was very active in the community, volunteering for the Rose Lake Historical Society, Senior Citizen Luncheon Program, and at one time was an EMT with the Rose Lake Quick Response Unit.

Esther was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Carl; her parents, and her siblings: Lois, Edor, William, Glenn, Belva (Tiny), Vernon, Merle (Peanuts), Elaine, and Lorraine.

She is survived by her children: Leonard (Nancy) of Osburn, Idaho; Cara (Bill McEnany) of Grants Pass, Oregon; Wade (Lisa) of Pullman, Washington; Hiland (Cheri) of East Wenatchee, Washington; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Esther was respected and loved by her large circle of family and friends and will be remembered for her warm and generous heart.

A memorial potluck dinner will be held at the Rose Lake School Friday, January 10. Family and friends are invited to attend anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rose Lake Historical Society, 14917 S. Queen St., Cataldo, ID 83810. Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements.