Esther C. Dake

Of Warsaw (Formerly of Castile) passed away at the age of 88 on April 26, 2026 at Strong Memorial Hospital after a brief illness.

She was born in Eden, NY on August 7, 1937, a daughter of Nelson and Marion (Brady) Cheney. Esther was a graduate of Eden High School and Brockport College with a master’s degree in physical education. She then taught physical education at Letchworth Central School for 32 years before retiring.

Esther had a passion for helping in her community, she worked on the Section five girls’ basketball committee for many years. She also was a volunteer EMT for over 20 years with the Castile Rescue Squad and she spent some time as a Lay Minister for Castile United Church of Christ. Esther’s hobbies included going on cruises, singing in the church choir, attending Wednesday Club and visiting her favorite place, Disney World. You could always find her attending her grandchildren’s school sporting and musical events.

She is survived by her sister, Susanne (John) Neswadi of Erie, CO; sons, Robert (Gail) Dake of Strasburg, CO, William (Melissa) Dake of Castile, NY; grandchildren, Zachary and Brianna of Castile, NY who were her pride and joy. As well as her close friends Beth Pond and Nancy Viola.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Robert Dake and her brothers, William Cheney, Nelson Cheney, and George Cheney.

The family would like to thank The Cloisters for the exceptional care for Esther in the last 3 years, as well as Strong Memorial Hospital for the recent care they gave Esther while in the hospital.

Visitation will be held on May 31, 2026 from 1-2 pm at the Castile United Church of Christ on Washington St and the funeral service will follow directly after. Esther will be laid to rest at Grace Cemetery in Castile. There will be a luncheon held after the funeral service at the Wolf Creek Event Center on Main St in Castile to celebrate her life. 

Memorials or contributions can be made to the Castile Rescue Squad or the Castile United Church of Christ. She was such a bright light in many people’s lives and will be greatly missed.