Esther Ellen Heaton, age 96 of Cadillac, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at the Wexford Senior Care Center. Esther was born on September 4, 1929 in Cadillac to Blake and Nellie Miller. On June 26, 1948 she married Charles Uptegraph and he precedes her in death. She then married William Heaton on August 2, 1986 and he also precedes her in death.

Esther worked many jobs as a young woman, but spent most of her life as a home maker. She worked the Shepard’s Table for many years. She was a member of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church for 60 years.

She is survived by her children Dennis Uptegraph, Karen Allison, Becky Whitney, six grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, four brothers, and one great-grandson Bryce Aillison.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon on Wednesday, January 14 at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Cadillac with Rev. Brennan Woell officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the time of service at the church. A luncheon will take place following the service at the church. Burial will take place in Maple Hill cemetery in Cadillac. Memorial contributions may be made out to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church. The family is being served by the Burkholder-Nielsen Funeral Home in McBain, the online obituary can be visited at burkholderfunerals.com.