Esther E. Heidebrecht

Esther E. Heidebrecht, 95, Topeka, passed away Thursday, November 22, 2012, at Brewster Place. She was born January 23, 1917, in Burden, KS, the daughter of F.R. and Mary Orand Shively. She grew up in Kinsley and attended high school in Long Beach, CA. Esther received her bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas in 1938 and did graduate work at the University of Chicago, School of Social Service Administration. She was a medical social worker for the American Red Cross. Esther was employed by the State Board of Social Welfare in child welfare services and also in public assistance. She was also employed by the Kansas Children's Service League for 20 years as a social worker and then as administrative supervisor.

Esther married Paul M. Heidebrecht on May 12, 1946, on the campus of the University of Chicago, where they were both students. He preceded her in death in 2008. Esther was a long-time member of First Christian Church and enjoyed volunteering for Midland Hospice and Doorstep in Topeka. Esther is survived by daughter, Mary (Charles) Transue, of Lawrence; and brother, Robert O. Shively, of Centennial, Colorado.

Private graveside services will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, 4700 SW 17th Street, Topeka. Mrs. Heidebrecht will lie in state after 3:00 p.m. and the family will receive guests from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 29, 2012, at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka. Memorial contributions may be made to Doorstep Inc., 1119 SW 10th Avenue # 1 Topeka, KS 66604.