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Obituaries » Theodore Esman

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January 22, 1938 - December 5, 2023

A funeral service to honor his life will be held at Joldersma and Klein Funeral Home on Monday, December 11, 2023, beginning at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 1:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be given to Centrica Hospice Rose Arbor Place, c/o the funeral home.

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Age 85, passed away at Rose Arbor on December 5, 2023, with family at his side, after a short battle with cancer. He was born in Kalamazoo, MI, the son of the late Peter and Minnie (Uldricks) Esman. He attended Kalamazoo Central High School where he would meet his future wife, Julie. In 1961, Ted was drafted, and served in the 720th Military Police Battalion. After being honorably discharged Ted returned home and on November 16, 1963, he married Julie (Robinson) Esman who survives. They enjoyed more than sixty years together. They made Southwest Michigan their home and started a family, raising two loving children. Ted worked hard as a machinist, at National Water Lift and retired after forty-two years. Ted had a passion for woodworking and was a gifted craftsman. Many of his works and fine furniture were gifted to friends and family where they remain treasured. He also took great pride in his yard and enjoyed working in his flower gardens. He was an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and enjoyed watching the Cowboy Channel. Above all, Ted loved his family, and he leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. He is survived by the love of his life and wife, Julie Esman; two children, Wendy (Dave) Olson, Mike (Stef) Esman; five grandchildren, Tessa and Cameron Esman, Erik, Donnie and Steven Olson; many nieces, nephews and friends. He was also preceded in passing by three brothers and a sister.