Howard "Jack" Essman

“Jack” Essman, 77, of Topeka passed away on February 4, 2022. He was born March 11, 1944 at Lawrence, Kansas the son of Elmer and Etta Ryles Essman. He grew up at Grantville and attended grade school there. He went on to high school at Perry. He graduated from Perry High School in 1962. Jack played baseball and basketball. Several years later Jack was drafted into the Army. He served his country from 1969 until 1971. He worked at Pelletier’s Department Store, Adams Business Forms, Santa Fe Railroad, Lawrence Paper Company and VanGuard Concrete Forms. He loved music. Jack came from a musical family. He played in local bands at events like the McLouth Threshing Bee, county fairs and weddings. Jack played the bass. He was a history buff. He enjoyed the History Channel. He also liked alien shows, but was known to watch South Park or the Kardashians as well. He enjoyed military history and often would go to air shows or museums. He had a great sense of humor. He was an antagonist and opinionated, which stoked his sense of humor. He could find humor in just about anyone or anything. He loved sports and was a big fan of teams which had a Kansas connection. He also liked to watch NASCAR. He is survived by his children, Sara Abel and husband Troy, Brenda Jessop and husband Matthew, all of Topeka, Brian of Ft. Worth and “Billy” Essman and wife Kristi of Topeka; grandchildren, Hannah, Zachary and Quinten. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Elmer Essman, Jr. and “Anita” Pekarek. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 9 at Davidson Funeral Home. Graveside service and military honors will be Thursday, February 10, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. at the Grantville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Rescue Mission. www.davidsonfuneral.com