David J. "DJ" Esken

David J. "DJ" Esken

David Esken Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Neil W Regan Funeral Home Inc on Oct. 22, 2025.
David "DJ" EskenDavid J. "DJ" Esken, 52, of Scranton died Friday after enduring a recent illness. Born in Scranton, he was a son of the late David and Donna Phillips Esken.DJ was an amazing brother, father, and friend who always looked for ways to make those around him smile and laugh.He was a fixture for over 20 years at Poor Richard's pub in the south side of Scranton and in addition worked Friday nights in recent years at The Bistro at the Holiday Inn in Dunmore where he served drinks, cooked food, and made friends. He was everyone's favorite bartender.His world revolved around his girls, Brielle, who he lovingly referred to as "etchkin" and Kyla, his "Kibbie". He often made personal sacrifices to ensure that they could pursue things that they love. DJ was a truly selfless man. He was an amazing brother, father, and friend.He was a graduate of Scranton Central High School class of 1989. DJ was active in bowling and dart leagues over the years, even traveling throughout the state to compete with his friends. He loved NASCAR, the New York Giants, and cheering on the Rail Riders.There wasn't a person who came into DJ's life that didn't feel special and loved. His smile and laugh could turn around anyone's day, no matter the circumstance. To say he will be missed understates the feeling.In addition to his girls, he is survived by four sisters, Laurie Scott (Jeff), and Jennifer, Melissa, and Erin Esken; two brothers, Russ (Corinne) and Bryan (Krista) Esken; as well many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved him dearly.The funeral will be Wednesday, with Mass at 1p.m. at Queen of Angels Parish at St. Michael's Church, 320 1st Ave., Jessup, to be celebrated by DJ's cousin, the Rev. Gerard McGlone, pastor. Interment will follow at Cathedral Cemetery.Friends may call Wednesday, 11 to 1 p.m., at the church prior to Mass. Arrangements, Neil W. Regan Funeral Home Inc., 1900 Pittston Ave. To e-mail condolences, please visit the funeral home website.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support David's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor David Esken's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign David Esken's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?