Gilbert Esarey

Bristow, Indiana Gilbert B. Esarey, 86, passed away September 11, 2019 at Memorial Hospital in Jasper. He was born in Bristow, Indiana on July 20, 1933, son of the late John William and Eva Albertine (Jones) Esarey. Also preceding him in death were his siblings, Louella King, Allen Esarey and four brothers in infancy. Gilbert was a 1952 graduate of Tell City High School and was soon married on September 30, 1952 to the former Ruth Harpenau, who survives. Gilbert was a truck driver for the former Can-Tex Industries for over 25 years. He was a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus at St. Isidore and the Southern Indiana Draft Horse and Mule Association. Gilbert and his wife, Ruth, gave wagon rides to many during festivals in the area. Gilbert enjoyed farming, working with his antique farm equipment and raising and working with his draft horses. He also enjoyed making molasses with the family for many years. Surviving is his wife of 66 years, Ruth Esarey, Bristow; their children, Elizabeth "Betty" Esarey (Angie), Russellville, AR, Matthew Esarey (Kim), Bristow, Rita Marsili (Frank), Gatchel, Mark Esarey (Donna), Bristow, John Esarey, Norfolk, VA , Joe Esarey, Tell City, Cletus Esarey (Monica), Rockport and Rosanna Tempel (Phillip), Lincoln City; a foster sister, Nancy Huebschman, Tell City; 36 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM CDT on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at St. Isidore Catholic Church in Bristow. Rev. Brian Esarey and Rev. Luke Waugh will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, September 20, 2019 from 4:00-7:00 PM and Saturday 9:00-11:00 AM at the church. There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Isidore Catholic Church Cemetery Fund or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.