Esther Armitage Warburton

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Esther Armitage Warburton, who left this world on October 15, 2025, in Bozeman, Montana.

Born in Ennis, Montana, on April 7, 1935, to Charles ("Chick") and Lenora ("Sis") Armitage, Esther was the feisty little sister to her beloved brother, Chuck. She grew up and was educated in Ennis, where she developed her intelligence, strong work ethic, and love for her hometown. From a young age, she was known for her drive, fun-loving spirit, and adventurous nature... and she was never one to shy away from a good, hard day's work.

On April 14, 1957, Esther married Karl "Gene" Warburton, and shortly thereafter the couple moved to Stevensville, Montana, to ranch with the Warburton family. In the early 1960s, Esther and Gene became supper club owners of the Fort Owen Inn, all while raising their three children: Kim, Rick, and LuAnne.

In the mid-1970s, the Warburtons moved to the Bozeman/Four Corners area, where they owned and operated The Cartwheel Supper Club for 18 years. The Cartwheel became known as one of Montana's finest dining establishments, thanks to Esther's impeccable standards and unwavering commitment to excellence. Nothing but the best would do for her.

Eventually, Gene and Esther returned home to Ennis, where Esther cared lovingly for her ailing mother and later her brother, all while working for over 25 years at Ennis Pharmacy and Yesterday's. Her sharp eye for detail, strong work ethic, and pride in presentation kept everything in tip-top shape.

Esther's greatest joy in life was her family, especially her children and granddaughters, Alexandra and Danielle, whom she adored. After retiring (again), she cherished her time surrounded by her loved ones, sharing laughter, stories, and her famous candor.

A proud community member, Esther was also active in the Mad-Gals and Ennis Lions Club, where she contributed her energy, humor, and signature determination to local projects and friendships.

Esther is survived by her son Rick (Patti) Warburton of Shelby, MT; daughter LuAnne Power and granddaughter Alexandra Power of Bozeman, MT; granddaughter Danielle Warburton (Kim's daughter), and Danielle's loving parents, Stacey Reynolds and stepfather Vernon Reynolds of Dillon, MT. Esther was preceded in death by her parents Chick and Sis Armitage, husband Gene Warburton, brother Chuck Armitage, son Kim Warburton, and son-in-law Casey Power.

Services will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Jeffers, MT, with the date and time to be announced once finalized.

Esther will be remembered for her wit, her strength, and her unwavering honesty — she always called it like she saw it. Her family and friends take comfort in knowing that her vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. The family requests that any memorials in Esther's name be directed to the Ennis Lions Club, P.O. Box 383, Ennis, MT 59729.