James Gustav Essinger

James Gustav Essinger
1958 - 2014
James Gustav Essinger, beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, went to be with the Lord at age 56 on Dec. 8, 2014. James was born April 5, 1958 in Belle Fourche SD and grew up in Bismarck ND, Yankton SD, and Pocatello ID, where he attended Pocatello High School and met the love of his life, Tami. They married in 1979 and were blessed with three wonderful sons. He earned a BA in Music Education and an Associates Degree in Systems Engineering at Idaho State University and taught music in Idaho Falls for one year before moving to Fruitland and becoming a computer programmer. He worked for Western Power Sports in Boise and lived in Fruitland ID until his time of passing.
James is survived by his wife, Tami; parents Donald and Letha; three sons: Joshua (wife: Rachel), Jacob, and Zachary; and grandchildren Zoe and Kolby, as well as his brother Mike and sisters Sandy and Helen. He is also survived by cherished exchange students from Germany, Korea, and Romania. He was also a father figure to many young people who were welcomed at his home.
James used his faith and musical talents to support and inspire many, including the people of the Fruitland United Methodist Church, Walk to Emmaus, and Kairos Prison Ministry. He took great joy in collecting and playing Magic the Gathering: the card game with his friends and family. He used his beautiful tenor voice in the Treasure Valley Community Choir and directed the Fruitland United Methodist Choir. He also described himself as a "semi-amature magician" and was a decidedly eloquent guitar player.
A memorial service will be held in his honor in Fruitland United Methodist Church at 317 SW 2nd St, Fruitland, ID at 2 pm. The family requests that in lieu of flowers or other gifts, donations be made to Idaho Kairos Prison Ministry so as to continue in the good work that he had dedicated so much of his energy toward. Donations can be sent to PO Box 791 Nampa ID 83653.