Robert John Essenberg

Robert “Bob” John Essenberg, 95, passed away peacefully in Vincennes, Indiana on December 11, 2023.   He was born on October 9, 1928 to Hazel “Forbes” and John Essenberg, in Muskegon, Michigan.

Bob proudly served as a Sgt in the United States Army as a Military Police officer - 19th Infantry in Okinawa, Japan, guarding military installations and government officials including General McArthur.   Bob was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal Japan.

After discharging from the military, Bob returned to Hart, Michigan where he owned and operated Sayles Hardware and Essenberg Home Center before becoming the General Manager of Vroom/Hanson Cold Storage.  Bob believed strongly in giving back to his community and served on the Hart City Council and the Oceana County Hospital Board for many years.  He was an active member of the Masons and Chamber of Commerce.   

Bob retired to Avon Park, Florida, where he could often be found golfing with his friends, riding his bicycle or exercising in his community gym.  He looked forward to his Alaska adventures every summer, where he photographed glaciers, mountains, waterfalls and wildlife.  He even panned for gold - unsuccessfully, but enjoyed the experience and the abundant, untamed beauty that surrounded him.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Hazel and John Essenberg, his first wife Frances “Millard”, and his siblings, Camille Coston, Betty Jean Locke and James Essenberg.

Surrounded by love, Bob’s greatest joys were found in his family.   He is survived by his wife Donna, daughters Barbara Price, Susan Palagyi, Beth Rhoden, Jeanie (Jeff) Jacobs, and Julie Curtis; grandchildren Bethany (Dean) Harmon, Jason (Ellen) Price, Terry (Amy) Palagyi, Robert (Diana) Palagyi, Annie Palagyi, Scott (Staysha) Rhoden, Holly Rhoden, Jamie (Curt) Daugherty, Joshua (Danielle) Jacobs, Shannon (Jim) Barstow, and Garrett Brink; 22 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren, as well as his sister Mary (Louis) Dudeck.   Bob’s final months were spent in Vincennes, Indiana with his granddaughter Jamie, whom he lovingly called “my angel”.  

Robert’s kind heart, adventurous soul, wicked sense of humor and friendly smile will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.   His life was one of impactful moments, shared stories and unconditional love… a true embodiment of a life well-lived.   

Burial will be held at Twin Lake Cemetery in Twin Lake, Michigan at a later date. 

Memorial contributions can be made in his name to The Wounded Warrior Project or the American Red Cross.

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