Obituary: Gordon Joseph Esser - Class of 1946

MADISON - Gordon Joseph Esser, age 85, died on March 3, 2014, surrounded by family, and good friend, Paulyn Ripp, at Waunakee Manor.

Gordon was born on March 6, 1928, the son of the late Joseph and Leona (La Crosse) Esser. He attended Holy Redeemer School and was a 1946 graduate of Central High School. Gordon was employed by the City of Madison (Purchasing Comptroller and Treasurer's Dept.) and retired in 1985, after 40 years of service. He was a longtime Badger football and basketball fan. He also enjoyed attending the theater here, as well as in Chicago. Gordon was a member of St. Mary's Auxiliary, the West Madison Optimist Club and Blessed Sacrament Church.

Gordon is survived by his sister, Joyce Faust; nieces, Kaye (Loran) Mezera, Susan Faust (John Evans), Mary Jane (Paul) Sams and JoAnne Nelson; great-nieces and nephews, Michael, Matthew, Michelle (Preston), Kristina, Samantha, and Shannen; and great-great-nephews, Preston and Joseph. He was preceded in death by a brother, Warren; and brother-in-law, Robert Faust.

A burial is to take place at St. John's Cemetery in Waunakee. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family wishes to thank St. Jude Hospice Care, and a special thanks to all of the wonderful, caring staff at Waunakee Manor for their support and friendship to Uncle Gordy since 2010.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 6, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).