Gary Dean Essells, age 77, passed away at his home in Hutchinson, Kansas, on August 17, 2022. He was born in Terre Haute, Indiana, on May 26, 1945, the youngest child of Warren and Emma (Jaeschke) Essells. He grew up in Wausau, Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin. Gary served in the United States army from 1968-70.
Gary was united in marriage to Connie Jo Ary in March 1972. He worked for KSKU radio and KTPS television. In 1976, the family moved to North Platte, Nebraska, where he worked as a communications specialist for the Union Pacific Railroad’s Baily Yards and as chief engineer for KELN/KOOQ radio. Both he and Connie volunteered countless hours to Nebraskaland Days, the official Nebraska state celebration. In 2000, they received the prestigious Dale Studley Award. They also were host parents for 24 years to more than 100 North Platte Community College basketball players.
In 2006, Gary and Connie retired and returned to Hutchinson, Kansas. He stayed active in many local nonprofit groups until his passing. These include Friends of the Hutchinson Public Library, Central Kansas Corvette Association, Reno County Amateur Radio Association, and Central Kansas Model Railroaders. For several years he also operated excursion trains for the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad.
Gary is survived by his daughter Gina Long of Hutchinson, Kansas, son Tim Long of Clayton, Ohio; and grandsons Andrew Ysac of Hutchinson, Kansas and Noah Long of MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife Connie, his parents, a brother Warren Essells and sister Majorie Colcord.
Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday August 24, 2022, at 10 am at Memorial Park Cemetery in Hutchinson, Kansas with Pastor Wayne DeWindt officiating. Gary will be escorted to his final resting place by the Central Kansas Corvette Association.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in his honor to the Friends of the Hutchinson Public Library through Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.