Robert L. Esken

Robert (Bob) L. Esken of Kettering, Ohio entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, January 8, 2020. Bob graciously and bravely walked through his battle with frontotemporal dementia with humor and acceptance.

Bob was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan on February 9, 1947 to Eileen (Deuer) and Leonard Esken. Bob is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Madeline McDaniel and younger brother, Leonard K. Esken. He is survived by his older brother, Dennis Esken (Sandra Smith). He leaves behind his wife, Paula Lively Esken, daughters, Elizabeth (Andrew), Kathryn (Justin), Nicole (Garry) and Heather (Chuck). Bob was blessed to have ten grandchildren, Abby, Morgan, Carter, Joshua, Max, Dakota, Courtney, Alyssa, Brittany, Arraya, six bonus-grandchildren, Susan, Kendall, Emma, Karigan, Parker, Peyton and eight great grandchildren.

Bob retired from Brinkman Tool and Die after over 40 years of service. After his retirement from full time employment, Bob enjoyed working part time at Dave Dennis Chrysler/Jeep and then at Sam's Club in Centerville, Ohio. He greatly enjoyed meeting people of all ages and backgrounds. Bob helped his customers when he could and delighted in sharing a funny story or two with the folks he served. Bob held season tickets to UD Basketball for over 20 years and enjoyed everything about the Dayton Flyers. Bob owned rental properties for many years in the Dayton and Grandview areas and was a blessing to many of his tenants. Bob believed in Jesus Christ and was a strong spiritual leader to his family. He attended West Carrollton Church of the Nazarene for many years.

Bob was happily married to Paula (Lively) Esken for over 37 years. He was truly the husband every woman prays she will marry. His every movement, plan and hope was for the highest good of his family. He loved his daughters and was delighted to have fathered all girls! He attended countless soccer and softball games, as well as cross-country track meets. He taught his girls to ride a bike, fish, camp, mow the grass, plant a tree, paint the house and make a great fire. He was patient, kind to strangers, generous to a fault, loved animals and adored being a grandfather. His fingerprint on the planet will be missed.