Esther L. (Brooks) Oates, age 69, of Valparaiso, passed away Tuesday, October 24, 2017. She was born on July 23, 1948 in Gary, Indiana to the late Austin and Jennie Brooks. On January 25, 1986, she married the love of her life, Curtis Oates. She was a faithful member of the United Pentecostal Church of Portage. Esther enjoyed fishing with her husband, cooking for her family and shopping on QVC. Above all, she loved her grandchildren and dedicated her life to taking care of her family.

Esther is survived by her beloved husband of 31 years, Curtis Oates; son, Randy Goff (girlfriend, Jamey Allen); daughter, Jennie (Shane) Pavlinac; grandchildren, Olivia and Cali Pavlinac; brother, John Brooks; sister-in-law, Glennis Brooks; many loving nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her brothers, Mel Brooks, Bob Brooks; sisters, Bea Bentley, Naomi Schwark; sister-in-laws, Kathy Brooks, Betty Brooks; brother-in-laws, Jack Bentley and Carl Schwark.

A funeral service for Esther will take place Friday, October 27, 2017 at 12:00 noon at the United Pentecostal Church of Portage, 2865 Willowdale Road, Portage, IN 46368 with Rev. James Fielder officiating. She will be laid to rest at McCool Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the time of service at the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.