Esther M. (Kaleta) Berrent

BERRENT, ESTHER M.

Esther M. Berrent of Baltimore, MD, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2024. A lifelong resident of Maryland, Esther was deeply loved by her family and held in highest esteem by her colleagues over a 60-year career. Always at the top of her class, Esther was able to skip two years of school and graduated high school at age 16. At age 20, shortly after World War II ended, Esther married the love of her life, John, who had just returned from service. They moved to College Park, where she started her career in the Admissions Office at the University of Maryland. There she was instrumental in revamping the student application process for efficiency. In later years she administered a major housing project in Baltimore City, worked as a legal secretary and bookkeeper, served as assistant to the Dean of the University of Maryland Law School, and supported clinical studies at the University of Maryland Stroke Center.

Esther was incredibly devoted to community service activities as well. For many years she led fundraising efforts for the Dundalk YMCA. Her favorite endeavor was developing and presenting breathtaking historical displays at the entrance of the annual Dundalk Heritage Fair. For fun, Esther enjoyed making ceramics and all types of arts and crafts. She was well-known for her love of seasonal and holiday décor, and for her fondness of all things Charlie Brown and Snoopy. Her house was always bright and festive to celebrate each season. She loved traveling with John but was equally content to enjoy gardening and meals at home, especially a crab cake with fresh corn and tomatoes from their garden. She greatly relished any time spent with her dear family and friends. Above all, Esther’s greatest joy was watching her family grow and welcoming new generations with an abundance of love.

Esther is predeceased by her husband John after 70+ wonderful years of marriage. She leaves behind cherished daughters Donna and Cheryl, and son-in-law Bob; grandchildren Jennifer (and husband Dave), Melissa (and husband Martin), Kevin (and wife Sarah), and Ryan; great grandchildren Francine, Sofia, and Carolina; nephew Charles; and a large extended family of beloved cousins and their families. Esther was blessed to have so many wonderful neighbors and friends, especially those who kept in touch with her long after their working days together had ended.

Esther will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive guests at the funeral home on Sunday, October 27, 2024 from 2 - 4 & 6 - 8 p.m., where a funeral service will be celebrated on Monday at 9:30 a.m. Interment will follow in Garrison Forest Veteran's Cemetery where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, John. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Hospital. 

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