Gary Francis Esch

Gary E. Esch was born on July 30, 1937 and passed away on February 20, 2012. His family was at his side throughout his hospital stay after a long illness and a valiant fight. Gary loved God so much that he took his breath away! Gary was born in Lansing, Michigan attending St. Mary?s High School. He was a proud member of the 1954 State High School championship basketball team. He was an accomplished athlete who excelled in many sports and was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies as a catcher. He chose instead to marry his High School sweetheart Connie and raise a family who he loved dearly. His marriage of 55 years was his greatest accomplishment! Gary went on to work as a Technician Design Supervisor for the State Highway Department for 32 years. He had many hobbies including hunting, fishing, archery, and golf. He loved introducing sports to his 7 children. He was a proud member of the St. Gerard Church.

Preceding him in his death were his parents Leon Esch and Leda Esch Kinney, his brother Leon (Lou) Esch and his beloved daughter Debra Esch DeMoss. Surviving is his sister Joyce (Jim) Moubray; brothers John (Diane) Esch, Gene (Andrea) Esch, and Bill Esch. His beloved wife, Connie and their children Wally DeMoss, Vicki Esch (Lynn), Sherry (Paul) Pirrotta, Tammy (Dave) VanDeVusse, Gary L. Esch, Lori (David) Wippel, Kelly (Don) McJames, and his Grandchildren Dustin (Tasha) Wippel, Valeri VanDeVusse, Paul Pirrotta, Jenna Wippel (Bruce), Tyler Wippel, Danielle Esch, Angela VanDeVusse, and Debra VanDeVusse.

Visitation is from 2-4, 6-8 P.M. Friday with a 7:00 P.M. Vigil Service in the Tiffany Funeral Home, 3232 W. Saginaw, Lansing. Funeral Liturgy is 10:30 A.M. Saturday, February 25, at St. Gerard Catholic Church, 4437 W. Willow, Lansing with Fr. John P. Klein presiding. Viewing will be from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. Saturday at church. Rite of committal St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. A special thanks to his home nurses Tina and Mandy and the Sparrow nurses from both the main hospital and the St. Lawrence Specialty Hospital for their wonderful care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be given in memory of Gary to St. Gerard Church in Lansing. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com