John “Jack” Esslinger, 86, of Springfield, died at 11:15 am, Tuesday, August 8, 2017 at Lewis Memorial Christian Village. He was born December 7, 1930 in Springfield, to John James and Sarah Marrin Esslinger. He married Patricia Bax on June 9, 1956.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; two sons, Perry (Wendy) Esslinger of Chesterfield, MO and Steven (Connie) Esslinger of Springfield; one daughter, Lisa Marie (Dan) Lanzotti of Springfield; 8 grandchildren, Jason (Emily) Esslinger, Sarah Esslinger, Elizabeth Esslinger, Nicholas Lanzotti, Lauren Lanzotti, Audrey Lanzotti, Claire Esslinger and Joseph Esslinger; one sister, Mary Anne (Tony) Ramos of Gurnee and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
His parents and beloved brother and best friend, Jim preceded him in death.
Jack was a graduate of Cathedral Boys High School. He attended Bradley University on a football scholarship. He served four years in the US Navy during the Korean War era. While in the US Navy, Jack played football three seasons for Norfolk Naval Air Station. In 1953 he was selected to the All Services All Star Team at offensive tackle.
He was a member of Christ the King Church and was a volunteer for Senior Services of Central Illinois’ Money Management Program. He was the Republican Precinct Committeeman for Capitol Precinct #59 for 32 years.
He was co-owner of Esslinger Mason Contractors and was proud of all the thousands of homes that he laid the block, brick and stone on throughout his forty years as a bricklayer. He was a licensed Real Estate Broker and co-owner of Esslinger Real Estate; was one of the ten original owners of King Pin Lanes. Jack also worked for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs as Supervisor for Weatherization Technical Services retiring in 1998.
Jack enjoyed his family and was extremely proud of his grandchildren. He was a man of strong faith and strong love of his family. He was his children’s and grandchildren’s biggest fan and enjoyed attending their games and events. His positive outlook; love; strength; friendliness; humor and thoughtfulness will continue to be an inspiration to everyone.
Visitation: 4-7 pm, Friday, August 11, 2017 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with a prayer service at 4 pm.
Funeral Mass: 10 am, Saturday, August 12, 2017 at Christ the King Church with Reverend Joseph Ring officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alton Catholic Children’s Home, 1400 State Street, Alton, IL 62002.
Date: Friday, August 11, 2017
Staab Funeral Home - Springfield
Prayer Service at 4 pm
Date: Saturday, August 12, 2017
Christ The King Church
Address:
1930 Barberry Drive, Springfield, IL, 62704In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alton Catholic Children’s Home, 1400 State Street, Alton, IL 62002.
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Springfield
1109 South Fifth Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Sherman
2626 East Andrew Road
Sherman, IL 62684
Diane Reinhart posted on 8/14/17
I worked with Jack at DCCA and he was a class act. Love the photo in the SJR because he always had the warmest smile and a kind word when I would see him. It was a pleasure to know him and although I am sad I smile when I think of Jack. My sympathy to your family.