Esther Pauline (Locher) Haeffner

Esther Pauline Haeffner (nee Locher), 77, of New Haven, MO passed away on May 1st, 2026 at Evelyn’s House Hospice, Creve Coeur, MO.  

Esther was born in Washington, MO on January 24, 1949, the daughter of the late Paul and Mildred (nee Triplett) Locher.  

She was united in marriage to Dale “Gus” Haeffner on July 1, 1967 in Gasconade, MO.  They were happily married for 32 years.  Gus preceded her in death on May 17, 1999.

Esther was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and quiet resilience.

She was a woman who took great pride in both her work and her family. Esther brought dedication to her role in payroll at Kellwood, always ensuring things were done right and with care. Later, she served as a plant manager for Mallinkrodt, Mon-a-Therm, and Code-3, where her leadership, determination, and work ethic earned the respect of all who worked alongside her. 

Beyond her professional life, she found her greatest spending time with family and working gardening.  She had a deep love for gardening, nurturing her plants with patience and care—much like she did with the people in her life. Whether tending to flowers or simply enjoying the outdoors, she found peace in the beauty she helped create.  She loved gardening with her grandkids who have since developed a love for gardening as well.

Her family was the center of her world. As a mother and grandmother, she gave her whole heart. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, creating memories filled with laughter, warmth, and unconditional love. Her strength guided her family, and her presence brought comfort and stability to those around her.

She will be remembered as a strong, hardworking woman who faced life with determination and grace. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved so deeply and in the countless lives she touched along the way.

She is preceded in death by her spouse, Dale Haeffner, her parents, Paul and Mildred Locher, her sisters Annette Menke, Angela Fleege, and JoAnn Locher.  

She is survived by her son, Larry and spouse Anita (nee Schulte) Haeffner, of New Haven, MO; her daughter, Nicole and spouse Eric Overschmidt, of New Haven, MO; her 4 grandchildren, Parker Haeffner, Jenna Haeffner, Chloe Overschmidt, all of New Haven, MO and McKenzie Eichelberger and spouse Jay, of Camdenton, MO.  She is also survived by her siblings, Caralynn Simmons, of Washington, MO, Sherry Ruediger, of Hermann, MO, Linda Miller, of Gasconade, MO, Paula Locher, of Hermann, MO, Beth Branson, of Jefferson City, MO, Paul Locher, of Wentzville, MO and extended family, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 from 4-8 pm at Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home in New Haven, MO. 

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, New Haven. She will be buried alongside her spouse at St. Peter’s Cemetery, New Haven.

Memorials suggested to the New Haven School District or St. Peter’s United Church of Christ.  She will be deeply missed and forever loved.