Kenneth C. Essmann, 93, of Gilman passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2022 at Piper City Rehab and Living Center in Piper City. He was born on August 4, 1928 in Nokomis, IL, the son of Clarence and Alberta (Kettelkamp) Essmann. He married Maxine Kunsch in Gilman on May 21, 1950.

Surviving are his wife, Maxine Essmann of Piper City; one son, Roger (Susan) Essmann of Earlville, IL; one daughter, Nancy (Bruce) Perzee of Gilman; six grandchildren, Aaron Essmann, Kira (Justin) Bender and their children, Jackson and Hannah, Kelsey (Jorge) Martinez and their children, Maverick and Maddie, Ryan (Michelle) Perzee and their children, Jenssen and Gentry, Abby Perzee and her daughter, Cristin, and Cali (Darrin) Schumacher and their children, Claire, Hank, Lydia, and Abe; and three great grandchildren, Haven Perzee, Bentley Bartloini, and Louie Bartloini.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Phyllis Walsh.

Kenneth served in the United States Navy. Mr. Essmann was a member of Gilman United Methodist Church and served as head usher for several years. He was a retired member of the Gilman Fire Department and a Fire District Trustee. Kenneth was a member of Gilman Rotary and Gilman American Legion Post #499. He was an avid Cardinals fan and loved attending his kid’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.

Visitation will be from 3:00-6:00 pm on Sunday, July 31, 2022 at Gilman United Methodist Church in Gilman.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Monday, August 1, 2022 with a visitation an hour prior to the service at church from 10:00-11:00 am. Rev. Vicki Killus and Rev. Jim Harkins will officiate. Burial will follow at Wenger Cemetery in Gilman. Graveside military rites to be provided by Gilman American Legion Post #499.