Rhoda Lee Esson, age 84, of Green Bay, passed away peacefully, Sunday, December 31, 2023, with a dear friend at her side. She was born January 23, 1939 in Duluth, MN, daughter of the late Russell and Lois (Brown) Esson.
Growing up near waters and woods, Rhoda acquired a deep love and appreciation of nature, one that she demonstrated throughout her life. When recalling her childhood, she would speak fondly of fishing on the dock or in the rowboat with her little dog. After graduating from Albert Lee High School, Rhoda enrolled at Winona State where she received a degree in education.
She was employed by Green Bay Public Schools as a Kindergarten teacher. She was respected by staff members and appreciated by the students that she taught. She has a little dog puppet, Cocoa, which she integrated into her lesson as well as to entertain her students (and staff). When former students would meet Rhoda, they would ask how Cocoa was. She would open her purse and pull him out saying, "Here he is!" Rhoda retired after 33 years of teaching.
After retirement, Rhoda remained active. She was an avid reader, especially Sherlock Holmes novels and Agatha Christie mysteries among others. Rhoda's home was filled with antiques and she enjoyed shopping for more. Ralph's Antiques was a favorite spot. Rhoda had a green thumb, growing beautiful flower gardens that filled her back yard. She enjoyed trips to Door County to see the cherry blossoms, fall colors, and especially the trilliums when they came into bloom. These trips were topped off with a visit to Al Johnson's for lunch and to see the goats.
Rhoda held a soft spot in her heart for animals and cared for many feline companions, including her beloved cat, Dirty Harry. She enjoyed visits by resident pets at Village at Eden Vista where she resided. Rhoda was an avid Green Bay Packer fan. Her favorite player was Bart Starr. She was a generous donor to his Rawhide Boys' Ranch.
Rhoda was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Lois Esson, her best friend, Barbara Hass and her cat, Dirty Harry. She will be missed by her cousin, Marion Jensen, as well as dear friends and colleagues.
In accordance with Rhoda's wishes, no services will be held.
Rhoda asked that memorials be directed to a charity of your choice in her name, and are appreciated.
Special thanks to the staff and residents at Village at Eden Vista, as well as to Heartland Hospice, for their care and compassion.