Kenneth J. Essler, age 86, went to be with our Lord, very peacefully, on March 28, 2017 at his home in Sherman Oaks Manor in Ludington, MI, with his friends and family by his side.
Ken was born in Padua, MN on January 4, 1931 to John and Elmeda (Hannsman) Essler. The family moved to Sauk Centre, MN in 1934. Ken graduated from Sauk Centre High School in 1948 where he enjoyed and excelled in many high school activities and sports. A favorite saying was the Mainstreeter basketball team was going to “State in ‘48”.
Ken joined the National Guard of Minnesota in April of 1947 and was honorably discharged from Camp Rucker Alabama, as a Staff Sergeant in November 1952.
Ken married his beloved Emily Studanski in 1961. They enjoyed 56 years together making homes in Minneapolis, MN and Milwaukee, WI. Ken worked with Standard Oil Pipeline as an operator for Westshore Pipeline holding several different capacities and responsibilities during this time.
Later relocating to Cresco, IA, Ken worked as a head pipeliner to continue his 38-year career with Standard Oil. He always appreciated his time with fellow co-workers and the company through the years.
Ken and Emily retired in Osakis, MN where they resided there for years. During this time, he enjoyed lawn work, container gardening, fishing, casinos, playing cards with his brother Bob and friends, visiting with his mother, and watching western movies. Ken could not be kept away from his mighty Minnesota Vikings, Twins, and the Lynx, and watching golf tournaments on television. Ken also enjoyed traveling with family. He visited Niagara Falls, Branson, MO, New Orleans, Reno, Sacramento, along with many more.
Ken always had a smile and kind word for family, friends, neighbors, and caregivers. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor and pleasant disposition. He will be missed by all of those who knew him.
Ken was a wonderful husband, father, and son. He is survived by his daughters, Karen (Randy) Flanery of Michigan and Kathy (Mark) Haakana of Wisconsin, 2 grandchildren, 2 step grandchildren, 5 step great grandchild, brother Bob Essler, many nieces and nephews, lifelong friends Bob and Helen Fenstamcher of Champlin MN and Larry Annette of Chippewa Falls WI, and 1 grand dog.
Ken was preceded in death by his wife Emily, sister Gloria Vogel, parents, and sister Ann (Stan) Nelson.
Burial will be held at a later date in Sauk Centre, MN.
Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington MI.
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