Ethel Fesler

Ethel Fesler, 94, of Bloomington, formerly of Mackinaw, passed away August 1, 2026, at Luther Oaks in Bloomington, Illinois.

She was born in Danvers, Illinois to John and Lilly White. Along with her parents, two older brothers, Illman and Henry, proceeded her in death. During her adolescence she moved to Lilly, Illinois, and then as a teenager to Mackinaw, Illinois, living there until 2023. She spent 64 years of that time at her home on Fast Avenue, where she could often be seen doing yard work or relaxing on her front porch. In 2024 she moved to Luther Oaks.

Ethel married Walter Fesler, December 3, 1950, raised two children, worked several years at the Henderson Weir Agency as well as holding a position as Mackinaw township clerk until 2023. Proceeding her in death was Walter in 1993 and son, John Fesler, in 2011.

During WWII while living at Lilly Orchard, she taught herself how to play piano on one that was old, out of tune with missing keys. Piano playing later became an integral part of her life; playing music together with Walter, family members, friends, and accompanying local singing groups and individuals. She had a natural talent for hearing a song and then replaying it without any music. Having instilled the love of music in other family members, she especially enjoyed attending concerts where she could watch them play. She owned a player-piano which provided a source of entertainment for herself and visitors alike, as well as showing off a special one, known as an orchestrion, which she and Walter built together. Another hobby was helping her son, John, restore a 1927 Model T Ford. Because her mind remained sharp, Ethel was called upon many times to answer questions concerning family and Mackinaw history. She retained a membership at the Mackinaw Methodist Church.

 In later years, she developed a special friendship with Cliff Gaines of Pekin, traveling around the Midwest attending vintage stock car races. He proceeded her in death.

While living at Luther Oaks, Ethel remained active, and could often be seen joking with staff, conversing with residents, or doing craft hobbies for giveaway gifts. Her residence there was filled with family photos and mementos of a full and wonderful life.

She is survived by a daughter, Ginny Bartges; grandson, Sam Wilson (Maureen); daughter-in-law, Char Fesler; great-nephew, Ken White, all of Bloomington, and a granddaughter, Merry Wilson (Dave Jennings), of Mesa Arizona. She was also very proud of her five great grandchildren, seeing one married in May.

Ethel was a special person, loved by family and friends and shall be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at the Mackinaw United Methodist Church where visitation will be one hour before services.  Rev. Jarrett Wells officiating.  Burial will be in Mackinaw Township Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Mackinaw Rescue Squad or Mackinaw District Library.

Hansel-Oswald Funeral Home in Mackinaw is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.davisoswaldfh.com.

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