Frank Esker (89) of Effingham

Frank Esker, 89 of Effingham, passed away Thursday, May 5, 2022 at Heartland Senior Living in Neoga.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Effingham with burial in St. Anthony Cemetery with military rites. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham. Memorial donations may be given to St. Anthony Schools. Online condolences may be left by clicking here.

Frank was born November 13, 1932 in Teutopolis, the son of Edward and Henrietta (Johans) Esker. On August 18, 1956, he married Betty Ann Haarman and she preceded him in death in 2016. Frank graduated in 1954 with a bachelor’s degree from Quincy University and began his military service with the United States Army until he was honorably discharged in 1956. Frank worked as an accountant with both Shell and Apex Oil Companies. He then worked as a cashier at Effingham State Bank (Midland) and later became the Senior Vice President. Frank also served as the treasurer for the City of Effingham.

Frank was a member of the Effingham Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and V.F.W.  He was a member of St. Anthony Church, where he took on the role of cemetery manager. Frank served as a past treasurer on the Effingham School Board and spent many years coaching baseball leagues with the Effingham Park District. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan, going to numerous spring training to obtain autographed baseballs.

Frank is survived by his children, Dr. Alan (Pat) Esker of Pearl City, Sue (Mark) Francis of Charlotte, NC, Kevin (Kelley) Esker of Effingham, and Don (Becky) Esker of Cedar Rapids, IA; nine grandchildren, Zach (Susana) Esker, Jacob (Alyssa) Esker, Joanna Esker, Robby (Anna) Francis, Ryan Francis, Monica (Carson) Willoughby, Alyson Esker, Madison Esker, and Blake Esker; five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughter, Mary, and brother, “Jim” Esker.