Archived Services

Michael Nels Essem
11-20-2023

Mike Essem was born on November 4, 1954 to Nettie (Bond) and Ed Essem in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He was one of twelve siblings born to Ed and Nettie, so Mike enjoyed the companionship of many siblings growing up.

On October 30, 1987 Mike was united in marriage to Kathy Quincey in Deadwood, South Dakota. He always quipped that he would never forget his anniversary since it was the day before Halloween! Mike was very tech savvy and was a skilled technician who established his own TV and computer business. He maintained his electronic repair business for over 30 years.

Mike was a gentle soul who had an affinity for dogs, chickens, and pigeons.

He was especially fond of Scout, his faithful sheltie and many other creatures who came to reside under his roof. His aquarium was also a source of pride and enjoyment. He had a fondness for chickens and pigeons and lovingly cared for all of his birds. He had a great sense of humor and loved sharing with family and friends.

Mike always had a large vegetable garden and would always plant extra to give away to family and friends. His hobbies included fishing, watching the History Channel and he had a special interest in science, space, and technology. Mike was a soft-spoken man who had a deep and abiding faith in God and could often be found reading his Bible. He was a deeply devoted family man and without question, Kathy—his bride of 36 years was the love of his life. We are all better for having known Mike and he will be profoundly missed. A memorial service in his honor will be held later next spring.

Survivors include brothers: Rashade (Dottie) Essem, Will Essem, Sioux Falls, Jerry (Mary) Essem, S. Elgin IL; sisters: Betty Melow; Janet McMartin, Sioux Falls; Mary Ann (Jo) Reinhart, Bakersfield CA; Linda (Alvie) Myers, Castor, LA; sister-in-law: Carla Quincey, Branson, MO; brothers-in-law: Tony Hines (LJ), Louisville, KY, Scott Quincey (Lorie), Pipestone, MN; special friend: Rick Saboe and numerous nieces and nephews. Less than two weeks after Mike had passed, his sister, Mims Lundgren joined the family circle. He is preceded in death by his mother: Nettie; father: Ed; brothers: Jamel and Roger; sisters: Marj Purkey and Sadie; in-laws: Lavonne and Dick Hines; Don Quincey and Blanche, and Rick Quincey.