David "Dave" Essary

David "Dave" Essary, 64, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones on January 29, 2026.

Born September 5, 1961 in Wood River, he was the son of Stell and LaDonne Essary who survive.

Also surviving are his best friend and wife of 31 years, Maggie (Garey) Essary; sisters, Shelley Essary,and Lisa Essary; in-laws, Pat (Bev) Garey, Michele (Sal) Manganelli, Joe Koncz,; nieces and nephews, Katie Terry, Katie Garey (Wayne Wilkes), Lauren Manganelli (Jake Parr), Danny (Julie) Garey, Caroline Koncz (Nick Cosentino), Ryan Manganelli (Tram Dao); great nephews, Jack and Luke Garey, Henry Wilkes; kind neighbor, Diane Dutchik; and great, lifelong friend, Phil Sandbach.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Mae Essary, Joseph and Flora Smith; in-laws, Bob and Connie Garey, Mary Koncz; and many aunts and uncles.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone at Fresenius Health Care, Alton Multispecialists, Alton Memorial Hospital, Christian Hospital Northeast, and American Kidney Foundation for their excellent care and compassion.

A true "Renaissance Man", Dave had many adventures in life. One job afforded him the opportunity to drive locomotives, and another, to fuel airplanes at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. Among his passions were cooking, cars, music and everything to do with World War II, of which he was very knowledgeable. In recent years, he enhanced his life by working out at Club Fitness in East Alton, where he made fast friends of the staff and fellow members. Despite his health challenges, he worked tirelessly, and looked forward to meeting the challenge. "The Fighter Still Remains". Dave's sense of humor and wit were just a few of the many things that attracted him to his best friend, Maggie and to all who knew him. Dave was book smart and street smart, kind, compassionate, and dearly loved by all. A life cut short, but a life well lived. He will be greatly missed.

Cremation rites were accorded.

A Celebration of Life memorial will be held at a later date.