Willie H. Esse, Jr. Age 84  died Aug. 11, 2010 at his home in Campbellton, TX.    Willie Esse graduated from Three Rivers High School in 1943.  Served in the Army from 1945 to 1947 and was a veteran of the Korean War.  He married Margaret Benke June 21, 1947 and resided in the Fashing, Peggy Community.  He was a farmer rancher raising commerical and registered cattle and show calves.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing and won numerous awards, and he also enjoyed the Livestock Show circuit. Though he was in a wheelchair for 57 years from polio, he thoroughly embraced life.  He was a life long member of the Fashing United Methodist and served on their board.  He was also on the Board of Directors of First Nichols National Bank in  Kenedy, TX.  for many years.

He was born March 18, 1926 in San Antonio to Willie H., Sr. And Mary Retzloff Esse.  He is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers James Esse and Roy Lee Esse. He is survived by his wife Margaret Benke Esse of Campbellton, TX, Son Lyn and his wife Robin Esse of Whitsett, TX.  Sisters Mildred Giese of Campbellton, TX, Bernice and husband Albert Schroeder of Campbellton, TX, and Janie Froehner of San Antonio, TX.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 3:00 PM at the Eckols Chapel in Kenedy, TX with Rev. Donna Martin officiating with Bill McReynolds delivering the eulogy.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Bugs Wood, George Emmit Miles, John Morgan O’Brien, Punch Humphries, Bill McReynolds, Richard Wehman, Joe Finley, and Murray Burnham.   Memorials may be sent to Fashing United Methodist Church. 7272 FM 99 Campbellton, TX 78008.  In celebration of his life the family will host a visitation and reception at Campbellton Hall following the grave side services