Michael John Esser

Mankato Mortuary 1001 N. Riverfront Drive Mankato, Minnesota 56001 507-388-2202 Michael J. Esser, age 85, of Mankato, died Thursday, February 20, 2015 at the Mayo Clinic Health System - Mankato with his family by his side. Memorial Service will be 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 23, 2015 at the Mankato Mortuary with Rev. David Banfield officiating. A visitation will be from 2-4p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2015 at the Mankato Mortuary and will continue one hour before the service on Monday. Burial will be at a later date. Michael was born September 27, 1929 to Henry and Anna (Schmitz) Esser in Two Inlets, MN. He was united in marriage to Donna Peterson on July 15, 1960 at Bethel Baptist Church in Mankato. Together they were blessed with 6 children. Michael worked for Pierce & Meyers and Year Round Cab for many years. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. Michael enjoyed gardening, camping, fishing, and collecting Ford tractors. Time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren was always important to him. Michael is survived by his children, William (Diana), Craig (Thelma), Melanie (Stefan) Burton, Anna Esser, Troy Esser, and Leila Esser; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; nephew, Vern Amundson; and special friends, Wayne & Vivian Tisher. Michael was preceded in death by his wife, Donna in 2011; grandson, William Esser; granddaughter, Sueann Sack; son-in-law, Les Sack; 5 sisters; and 4 brothers.