Esther I. Vallem of Waverly, formerly of McCallsburg, died January 2, 2015 at Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community at the age of 95. Esther was born on June 17, 1919, the daughter of Earl and Alice (McVitty) Culberston. She was a graduate of Zearing High School in 1937. On October 12, 1939, she was united in marriage to Gerald A. Vallem in McCallsburg, Iowa. She was a resident of McCallsburg for over 70 years and was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church. Esther worked with her husband in the insurance and income tax business for many years. She loved to bake and provide cakes, bars and kringla for her church, family and friends. Esther is survived by one son, Gerald Jr. "Jerry", a daughter-in-law, Susan, three grandsons, Derek (Amy), Jason (Shelly), and Bradley (Razija), a sister, Dorothy Severtson, six great-grandchildren, a nephew, and several nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and two brothers. Funeral services will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church in McCallsburg on Saturday, January 10, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. with Pastor Kathy Sandmann officiating. Visitation will be at the church on Friday, January 9, 2015 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Burial will follow the funeral service in the Warren Township Cemetery in McCallsburg. Memorials may be directed to Bethany Lutheran Church, McCallsburg American Legion, or a charity of choice. Fredregill Funeral Home in Zearing has been entrusted with the care of Esther and her family. Visitation Bethany Lutheran Church 50 S. 3rd St McCallsburg, IA 50154 Visitation 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Service Bethany Lutheran Church 50 S. 3rd St McCallsburg, IA 50154 Service 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM