How I will remember Esther Wissbaum

Dear Editor,

Esther Wissbaum was one of my mother's dearest friends. They spoke by phone every day, sent cards for special occasions and enjoyed each other's company. After my mother passed in 1995, Esther became a surrogate mother figure. She sent me cards and letters, and she defended me with an occasional letter to the editor.

This May she sent me a birthday card with a cheerful handwritten note. I knew she would be celebrating her 100th birthday in a few days, so I planned a call to wish her a Happy 100! It was then I found she was in the hospital. So, I stepped off the floor of the Senate and called the hospital and spoke to her faithful daughter Lois Jane, who told me that her mother was not doing well.

Esther and I had a short but meaningful conversation with many reminiscences about family and events. I was able to wish her a Happy Birthday as she had just done for me days earlier.

The next day, when I received a call from Lois Jane, I knew the nature of the call and was so saddened to learn of her passing But I was also happy that I had not put off my call to her as I have far too many times to my regret. According to Lois Jane, my call was her last. I am truly honored it was with me. To Esther and my mother I will always be "Bennie." And that's just fine with me.

Sen. Ben Nelson,

Washington D.C.