Larae Watson Essman, formerly of Omaha, Nebraska and Estes Park, Colorado, passed away on August 29, 2017, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Larae was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Olive (Sitzmann) Watson, and her sister, Kay Watson. Larae is survived by her husband, Roger; children, Paul and Jean (Kasl) Essman, Lisa (Mark Vucenich), Amelia (Don Gentle); grandchildren, Andrew and Natalie (Stoltz) Essman, Samantha (Essman) and Chris Hobelman, Alexander Gentle, Sophie Gentle; nieces, Deb (Tom) Lane, Denise Urich, and nephew, David (Sonja) Urich.
Larae was born on November 15, 1933 in Omaha. A bibliophilist, feminist, accomplished writer and photographer, Larae was a true friend whose intelligence, knowledge, wit, and personality were enjoyed by family, friends, acquaintances, and strangers. A letter from Larae was a treasure to delight in unless you were a politician with a differing view. Reading, writing, and meaningful conversation with friends and family were her greatest pleasures. If you wanted a letter from Larae all you had to do was send her one, you were assured of a reply. Throughout her lifetime she never let go of a friend who wanted to be her friend.
Larae was a 1955 graduate of the University of Nebraska, Creighton University School of Law post-graduate studies, a member of Alpha Xi Delta, and several honorary societies. Fervent member of the League of Women Voters, library promoter and volunteer. An integral member of book groups at home, on the road and generous contributor to many causes. Private interment at Sunrise Cemetery in Wahoo, Nebraska will take place at a later date. Memorials are suggested to your local Planned Parenthood chapter, ACLU chapter, or any organization benefiting children.
Trump Funeral Services, 1600 West “O” Street, Lincoln are handling the arrangements. Condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com.
Larae was a great favorite of my mother’s (Ruth Metcalf). I know very well that “a letter from Larae was a treasure to delight in,” as my mother kept many of Larae’s postcards from Estes Park. Mom also kept at least one commentary of Larae’s that appeared in “The National Observer,” a great if short-lived periodical. I read that commentary and agreed with later “Observer” letter writers who urged the paper to hire Larae as a staff writer. It should be of some comfort to you to know that Larae was loved, and that her influence was far-reaching.
Thank you for those nice comments about Larae. Larae and Ruth really enjoyed each other. We really had a good time when Ruth visited us in Estes Park!
I was heartbroken today when I read of dear Larae’s passing. My deepest sympathy to you Roger, and family. What a wonderful, charming and fun lady…she will be missed by anyone who was lucky enough to know her. Charlotte Lloyd, Estes Park, CO