Esther Ruth Bosman Rupke

September 25, 1929 - June 12, 2025

With deep sadness the family of Esther Rupke shares the news of her passing at age 95. On June 12, 2025, Esther "Boots" Rupke was peacefully called home to be with her Lord and Savior. Esther was born on September 25, 1929 in Lynden, Washington to John and Alice (Hendricks) Bosman. She was the youngest and last surviving of John and Alice's fourteen children.

On October 11, 1950 Esther "Boots" married John Rupke. For the next 67 years "Boots" was John's helpmate, at his side, supporting and raising their family of six children. "Boots" created a warm and welcoming home where they frequently hosted members of their large extended family as well as a network of friends both in Grand Rapids and at their cottage at Birch Bay, Washington. She was a gifted pianist, harmonica player and organist.

Though devoted to her family, Esther also enriched the lives of others through her unassuming involvement with her church and charitable organizations. Esther exemplified grace, kindness and hospitality. We will hold dear our memories of her and how she blessed our lives.

As a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt, she loved unconditionally. She will be dearly missed by her Children; Karen Rupke, Jan Winters (Tom Moore), Beth (Roger) Steensma, Paul Rupke (Debbie Kleban), Dan (Lynda Bykerk) Rupke, Grandchildren; Karissa Winters (Ruben Prieto Fernandez), Evan (Richel Jacinto) Steensma, Eva (Sam) Abbott, Claire (Jordan) Diekema, Great-grandchildren; Dahlia Vera Winters Prieto, Daniella Steensma, Brooks Diekema, George Steensma, Teagan Diekema and many nieces and nephews. "Boots" was preceded in death by her loving husband John Rupke and daughter Kim Alison Rupke Damon.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. at Zaagman Memorial Chapel with Reverend Cindy Baron de Jong officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral chapel on Saturday from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. prior to the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Hospice or a charity of one's choosing.