MADISON - James R. “Jim” Esser, age 85, of Madison, passed away on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on Sept. 29, 1938, in Madison, the son of Vincent and Minnie (Gausmann) Esser.

After a stint in the U.S. Army and marriage to Katharine “Kathy” (Lebsack) in May of 1964, he returned to Madison and began his career in food service management, working at McDonalds and Ponderosa Steak House. Later, he received a degree in electronics and worked until retirement as a product manager for Amtelco in McFarland.

He followed in his Dad’s footsteps and became an amateur radio operator - WD9FRF, a call sign we will forever remember. He enjoyed photography and was an avid reader who loved going to the library. Following his retirement and until Alzheimer’s slowed him down, he volunteered at the Wisconsin Historical Museum, St. Stephen’s Food Pantry and Habitat for Humanity Restore. He also enjoyed travels to New Mexico and Utah visiting his son, as well as visiting his in-laws in Kansas. More recently he enjoyed his weekly ‘boy’s lunches’ with his brothers.

Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Kathy, (or as she put it, survived 60 years with her); daughters, Shari Esser (special friend, Phil Raab) and Valerie Esser; daughter-in-law, Dina Drits-Esser; grandchildren, Solomon and Knut; brothers, John (Joann) Esser and Paul (Carol) Esser; sister, Susan Hietpas (Dave); many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and his good little guy, George the cat. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Minnie; son, Richard Esser; and beloved cat, Buddy.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff on 5 East at St. Mary’s Hospital for their compassionate care in his final days.

A funeral service will be held at ST. STEPHEN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5700 Pheasant Hill Road, Monona, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, with the Rev. Elisa Brandt presiding. A light luncheon will follow at church. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday. Inurnment will take place at Highland Memory Gardens at a later date.

Memorials may be made in Jim’s name to St. Stephens Food Pantry or a charity of donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

James Robert Esser

September 29, 1938 - September 16, 2024

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