Esther A. Cheever, 86, of Fort Wayne, died Saturday August 15, 2026 at Grey Stone Heath & Rehabilitation Center. She was born in Cambridge MA on September 19, 1939, the daughter of (the late) George and Jennie (Cadman) Ohannessian.

Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Francis A. Cheever; daughter, Ellen L. Ilban; sister Diamond Ohannessian, and brother, John Ohannessian.

Survivors include her son, Michael Cheever and daughter, Michelle McKim, both of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Brandon (Emily) Eller, Austin Eller and Karina Ilban, all of Fort Wayne, Justin (Ashley) Eller of Mt. Sterling KY, David Cheever of Ann Arbor MI, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Esther had been a member of St John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Haven and a Girl Scout leader. She had a working career spanning many years that included Raytheon and JC Penney, as well as a substitute art teacher. She was a nature enthusiast, an artist, and enjoyed cooking. She always tried to be helpful and assist others, and her greatest joy was the time she spent with her family & friends. She was very proud of her relationship to the Cadman and Putnam families, who arrived on the Mayflower.

Funeral Services 11:00am Thursday August 20, 2026, at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave. with visitation from 10-11am. Burial in Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Cheever Family. To share a remembrance of Esther or to offer condolences, please visit DivineMercyFuneralHome.com.

Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon her.

.