Esther V. Berte, 93, a lifelong resident of Marlborough passed away peacefully on Thursday March 17, 2016. She was the wife of George L. Berte who passed in 1977; and the daughter of the late John and Lena (Montagna) Merlini. Esther graduated from Marlborough High School Class of 1940 and worked 17 years as a hair stylist until her retirement in 1983. Esther enjoyed her family and friends, gardening, baking and had a passion for writing; especially her memoirs which she started in 1993. She was a lifelong member of St. Ann's Church. Esther is survived by two sons George A. and Richard C. Berte and daughter-in-law Gail; two step grandchildren Tom and Ryan Pajala and 2 step great grandchildren Danny and Joey. She has one brother Albert Merlini and his wife Barbara from Laconia, NH. Two grandchildren, Evan and Janelle (Thresher) and her husband Jay; and 4 great grandchildren; Anthony, Ava, Kailyn,
and Breeden.

There will be no calling hours per Esther's final request; as the services will be private. In lieu
of flowers the family highly recommends contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Assoc. and
mailed to Fitzgerald & Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln Street, Marlborough, MA 01752. All the proceeds will then be mailed together in Esther's fond memory. All are invited to sign Esther's online guestbook at www.Collins Funeral.com.