Ruth I. Esser

Ruth I. Esser, 81, formerly of Oconomowoc, WI passed away peacefully on Monday, February 12, 2024, at Parkside Village in DeForest with family by her side.

Ruth was born on February 14, 1942, the daughter of Earl and Isabel Tremaine in Oconomowoc, WI.  On September 17, 1966, she was united in marriage to Robert J. Esser.  They shared 53 wonderful years together before his passing in 2020.

Ruth lived her entire life in the Oconomowoc and Ashippun area. Oconomowoc is where she and Bob raised their family, where Ruth was a beloved cafeteria lady at Greenland elementary, and the family snowmobiled with the Throttle Jockey Snowmobile Club.  With her family grown, Ruth helped Bob operate the family business, Bob’s Blacktop Sealing.  After retirement, they enjoyed taking bus tours and motorcycle trips and traveled all over the United States. Ruth was a faithful member of the Holy Name of Jesus Ev. Catholic Church in Ashippun, WI. She loved her yard and took great pride in keeping it free of leaves and dandelions. She dearly loved her faithful canine companion, Sparky and captured the hearts of all she met throughout her life.

Ruth will be deeply missed by her daughter Tina Esser of Watertown; her son Tim (Sue) Esser of De Forest; her grandchildren: Amanda, Danielle, Kyle, and Kade; great grandson Ferris, her brother Dale (Jane) Tremaine, and sisters-in-laws: Joan Raasch, Mary Priesgan, and Carole Esser.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bob, stepsons Mike Esser and Joey Esser; and her sisters: Frances Tremaine, Lois Baker and Shirley Gourlie.

A visitation for Ruth will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. at Glenview Memorial Gardens, W1219 Glenview Ave., Ixonia, WI. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Father Dave Verhasselt officiating.  Entombment will follow at Glenview Memorial Gardens.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and residents at Parkside Village of DeForest for making Ruth feel at home, and to Brighton Hospice for their compassionate care the last few months.