Esther Louise Rager, 91 of Chesterton, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024. She was born October 10, 1932, in Blairsville, PA to the late Kenneth and Arletta (Weaver) Hassenpflug. Louise was a Cook at Flint Lake Elementary School and later at Valparaiso University, before serving in the Customer Service Department at JCPenney. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Valparaiso, Guardian of Job’s Daughters Bethel #54, Grand Guardian Council International Order of Job’s Daughters for the State of Indiana, and member of the Eastern Star Chapter #65. Louise was also an avid crafter who enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and reading. Her life revolved around her beloved family, and she remained active in their lives as much as possible. Louise was a moral compass for her children, and will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
On February 10, 1950, Louise married Edgar Rager, who preceded her in death in 2022. She is survived by their children: Gwendolyn (Ron) Myers of Logansport, Linda (Ian) Townsend of Valparaiso, Fred (Bonnie) Rager of Westville, and Cynthia (Brian) Neuner of Glendale, AZ; grandchildren: Jason, Aaron, Matthew, Justin, Freddie, Ashley, Rebecca, and Eric; 10 great-grandchildren; and sister, Virginia Grcich. She was preceded in death by her sister, Irene Hassenpflug.
A visitation will be held on Monday, June 24, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Valparaiso, 103 Franklin St., Valparaiso, with a memorial service beginning at 4:00 p.m. Private entombment of the urn will take place at Graceland Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

GUESTBOOK

I am so sorry for your loss. Louise was a very special Lady. I first met her at Bible Study at the Methodist Church. She became a good friend. I wish I lived closer and could have visited her more. She will be missed by many. Heaven gained another Angel. Rest in peace my dear friend. Love you always! - Karen Kraft 

To All of Louise's Loving Family,.... We appreciate that as growing Weissert children, we shared church life with your family and the Grcich family also. Our roots run deep in PA and it meant alot to know yours did as well. Our parents have passed but memories bring smiles. May you find comfort as you reflect on memories of your parents. May smiles warm your hearts as you journey the days to come! - Lovingly, Jane (Weissert) and hubby John Pinkerton

Aunt Louise was a beautiful lady. Now a beautiful angel. So many happy memories her and Uncle Ed. They have given me lots of laughs. Always a happy fun time when they came to visit mom and dad. Prayers to all filled with love. -Denny and Jenny Hill 

One of my besties ever so young at heart my partner in crime at curves where we met I will hold you forever in my HEART I'm so sorry for family God Bless You All. -Loretta Lusk 

Aunt Louise was a beautiful lady. Now a beautiful angel. So many happy memories her and Uncle Ed. They have given me lots of laughs. Always a happy fun time when they came to visit mom and dad. Prayers to all filled with love. -Denny and Jenny Hill

I miss you so very much. I can't believe you are gone. My loving angel. I talk to you every day. I miss our phone calls. I miss sharing all of life events. I pray you are happy and pain free. Kiss my daddy. You are my forever angel. I love you so much. -Cynthia Neuner