Paul Essner

Paul Leo Essner, 95 of Benton, MO died peacefully Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at his home surrounded by family.

Paul was born April 18, 1930 in Benton to Eugene Frank and Clara Crescentia Diebold Essner.

He and Bertha J Brockmeyer were married July 25, 1953 at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Cape Girardeau, MO. She preceded him in death Sept 18, 2024.

He cherished his 71 years of marriage to Bert, taking her dancing, but most of all he loved sitting on his swing with her by his side. He was dedicated to loving and caring for his family

Paul was a lifetime member of St. Denis Catholic Church, Benton MO. He was faithful to the Lord and loved to attend daily mass and served his church and community in many ways. He was a member of the St Denis Men’s Club, Knights of Columbus Council 1111, and Marriage Encounter. For many years Paul took care of the St. Denis Cemetery and grounds. Paul proudly served his country in the Korean War.

Paul was born and lived on the Essner family farm his entire life. He loved to ride his bike; he rode many years and miles retiring it at the age of 92. Family and friends enjoyed listening to him play his harmonica. He was always ready to play a few hands of Euchre and share time with family, friends, or strangers.

Survivors include his five sons; Lenny (Leslie) Essner of Jackson, MO, Stan (Shirley) Essner of Benton, MO, Donnie (Theresa) Essner of Bridgeton, MO, Larry (Betty) Essner of Benton, MO, Mike (Glenda) Essner of Oran, MO, one daughter Karen (Todd) Powers of Benton, MO, one sister Clara Brucker of Jackson, MO, 20 grandchildren, Marnie Mitchell, Audrey Norman, Natalie Crader, Emily Bolin, Melanie Williams, Tanya Herrera, Pam Dannenmueller, Jamie Essner, Sara Hussman, Jeremy Essner, Andrea Arredondo, Julia Sellnow, Matthew Essner, Justin Essner, Janelle Panosian, Kayla Essner, Michelle George, Bethany Essner, Elizabeth Wyatt, Timothy Powers. 38 great grandkids, and 3 great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, sisters: Lorena Meyer, Tillie Helmer, Cyrilla Brandenburg, Alma Bunting, and Mary Kirn and brothers: Tony Essner, Frank Essner

Friends may call from 4-8 on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at St. Denis Parish Center, Benton, MO. Parish prayers will be. at 4:00. Visitation Monday morning 8:30-9:30 at Amick Burnett Funeral Chapel Benton, MO

Funeral Mass will be at 10am Monday, March 30, 2026 at St. Denis Catholic Church in Benton, MO with the Rev. Daniel Belken officiating and Msgr. Normand Varone as concelebrant.

Burial will follow at St. Denis Cemetery. Luncheon to follow in St Denis Parish Center

Memorial contributions may be given to St Denis and St Jude’s Hospital