Dennis D. Essing

Dennis D. Essing, age 79 of Kissimmee Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on February 1, 2021 after a brief illness. He was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa on March 16, 1941 the son of John “Red” and Adeline (Gutz) Essing. Dennis grew up on the family farm, an “Iowa Heritage Farm” located just east of Pomeroy Iowa with acreage in the family since 1874. He served three years in the Navy and was stationed in the Philippines. Upon returning to Iowa, he married Diane Hanna of Fort Dodge, Iowa. He pursued a career in Banking and Finance all his life. Early career positions lead to serving as Bank President for both Graettinger State Bank and Newton National Bank. His passion for farming continued as he would return to the farm to assist as much as possible. Annual family trips from Iowa to Florida during Christmas break became a family tradition of playing golf on New Years Day, no matter what the weather. He moved to Kissimmee Florida in 1980. Career pursuits led to forming new bank charters in Kissimmee and Marco Island. Dennis married Sandra St. Moritz of St Cloud Florida in 1985. He was continually active in community affairs serving as a member of the Chamber of Commerce including several fraternal and service organizations. He was a proud member of the American Legion. Dennis enjoyed golfing very much with family and friends, both local and international. He also collected antiques and pursued coin and currency collection. He had a special enthusiasm for the two-dollar bill. Whenever he would leave tips, he would always use a two-dollar bill. He was well known in the local community for his tipping custom and some people began their own collection of the two-dollar bill as a result. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents John and Adeline Essing; Merle Essing, brother; Linda Essing, sister; Sandra Essing, wife and Diane Essing, ex-wife. He is survived by Douglas Essing, son, Brandon FL; Daniel Essing, son, Fort Dodge, IA; Lorna Stiles, sister, Exira IA; three grandchildren and one great granddaughter. A Celebration of Life is to take place on the Family Farm at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dennis’s name to the American Cancer Society.

Dennis D. Essing

March 16, 1941 - February 1, 2021