Esbeck, David M. (1939 - 2012)

ESBECK, SOE, JAMES, KEARNS, THUESEN

Posted By: Denise Wurner (email)
Date: 7/15/2012 at 18:08:56

Submitted by Marthann Kohl, posted by permission

Source: Des Moines Register

David M. Esbeck
Des Moines

David M. Esbeck died suddenly Sunday, July 1, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. He was 73. David was born April 6, 1939, in Kimballton, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward T. Esbeck and Gudrun M. Esbeck (Soe) of Kimballton.

David was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Kimballton. After finishing high school, he attended Grand View University in Des Moines. He continued his education at the University of Iowa earning a Bachelors and Masters Degree. He returned to Des Moines to teach, ultimately working and finishing his career as librarian for the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). He took pride in his long tenure there.

David loved music and the theatre, playing the piano and organ his whole life, often as a church and choral accompanist. He directed and produced shows throughout the area, in both schools and professional venues, such as the Purple Cow and Ingersoll Dinner theatres. After retiring, David enjoyed gardening, cooking and needle-work. "Uncle Dave" loved family get-togethers and most of all his dogs, Maggie, Rose and Teddy. David was particularly proud of his Danish ancestry. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran church in Des Moines.

David is survived by his brother, Edward Soe Esbeck and wife, Rosemary, of Olympia WA; a nephew, Edward Scott Esbeck, of Austin, TX; a niece, Jill M. Esbeck and husband, Donald Kearns, and children Adam and Kirsten of Olympia WA; another niece, Kaaren M. James, and daughter Abigail, of Mill Valley, CA; and sister-in-law, Janet M. Thuesen, of Sausalito CA.

David always faced adversity with courage. He will be remembered for his kind heart, quick wit, and hearty laugh. Services will be at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Kimballton on Saturday, July 21, 11 a.m., and at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Des Moines on Monday, July 23, 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Danish Immigrant Museum, or Grand View University.

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