Johnathan Allen Esch

Johnathan “John” Allen Esch, born November 17, 1993, in Lansing, Michigan, embarked on his last adventure on May 18, 2024 after a beautiful day with his family. Son of Roger and Dee Esch, John radiated boundless energy and an irrepressible spirit from his earliest days. As a child, he was a whirlwind of creativity, fashioning swords from any available material and exhausting the household's tape supply in his imaginative pursuits. His love for the outdoors was evident in his penchant for building forts, exploring the woods, and uncovering the mysteries of nature.

Throughout his life, John retained his youthful exuberance, finding joy in music and culinary exploration. A self-taught virtuoso on instruments like the guitar, banjo, and ukulele, he infused his days with melody and rhythm. His culinary skills were legendary, delighting friends and family with mouthwatering dishes ranging from perfectly grilled steaks to homemade pasta masterpieces.

John’s insatiable curiosity led him to delve into diverse subjects, from astronomy to culinary arts, absorbing knowledge through videos and podcasts. Inspired by the compassion of EMS paramedics during his father's passing while in college, John embarked on a path of service, becoming an exemplary firefighter-paramedic dedicated to alleviating suffering and providing support beyond medical intervention. In the months preceding John’s passing, he volunteered his time to work relentlessly on compiling community resources for patients. His goal was to have this information readily available to help connect populations that are typically medically-isolated to appropriate resources such as substance abuse rehabilitation facilities, mental health clinics, Narcan training, resources for women and children, assistance programs to obtain insurance, etc. John completed this extensive task without being asked with the hopes of improving the lives of his patients. John made it his mission to always offer non-judgmental healthcare and to form a genuine human connection with all of his patients. John saw his work as a way to improve his community rather than just a job. He was humble, knowledgeable, and kind. His absence will create a palpable void within his community.

In Erika Glatz, John found a partner who shared his zest for life's adventures. Their bond, forged in laughter, love, and shared passions, culminated in a joyous elopement in New Zealand on December 12, 2023, surrounded by the splendor of nature and the warmth of their affection.

John’s presence enriched the lives of all who knew him. His reliability, attentive listening, and unwavering support endeared him to family and friends alike. As an uncle, he was unparalleled, showering his nieces and nephews with love and laughter, leaving an indelible imprint on their hearts.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and service, dearly missed by his beloved wife, Erika Glatz; devoted mother, Dee Esch; cherished sister, Jessica Harris; adored brother, David Esch; loving grandmother, Loretta Esch; affectionate mother and father-in-law, Carol and Jeff Glatz; dear brother-in-law, Ryan Glatz; endearing sister-in-law Monica Fabis; joyful nieces and nephews, Aurora, Gabe, Henry, Ivan, and Daisy; faithful canine companion, Mochi; and feline friends, Momo Money Killa, Tyson, and Frankie. He will also be fondly remembered by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. John passes in spirit with his dear brother-in-law Dan Harris.

John’s impact extends beyond his immediate circle, felt in the communities he served as a dedicated paramedic with Mercy Ambulance and Lansing Township Fire Department. While our hearts ache with his absence, John’s spirit lives on in the memories we cherish and the lives he touched.

Services to celebrate John’s life are scheduled for Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 1pm at 2|42 Community Church | Lansing Campus located at 2600 Bennett Rd, Okemos, MI 48864. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to the Big Lake Humane Society, which is the shelter where he met his beloved dog, Mochi.

Services entrusted to Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Lansing.