Michael Esquibel

Michael Raymond Esquibel, age 68, passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Mike was born in Dodge City, Kansas to Richard and Sharon (Gleason) Esquibel. He grew up in Dodge City where he attended local schools. Mike learned to break, train and ride race horses at a young age from his Dad and uncle "Butch" Gleason.

On June 11, 1993, he married the love of his life, Kristi Maxson at the rodeo arena in McPherson, Kansas on horseback with saddles won by Mike at rodeos. From their union a son, Michael "Rio" Esquibel was born.

Mike lived his life as an all around cowboy riding broncs, working for New Frontier Rodeo Company and other ranches. He also worked at many Sale Barns in Kansas and Oklahoma. Mike had a passion for horses, rodeo and ranching. He competed on the Kansas Wranglers Rodeo team in bareback and saddle bronc riding. He qualified to the PRCA Prairie circuit finals at ages of 17 & 40 in the saddle broncs. Mike was known for sharing his knowledge, rodeo equipment and home. Mike rode bulls, barebacks, saddle broncs, steer wrestled, team roped, and. judged rodeos over the years. Mike also enjoyed fishing and going to the local sale barn to catch up with friends.

Surviving to honor his memory are his wife, Kristi Esquibel of Edna, Kansas; son, Michael "Rio" Esquibel of Chandler, Oklahoma; his mother, Sharon Esquibel of Dodge City; siblings, Joni Esquibel, Mark Esquibel, Tammy Weiser and (David), and Ricky Esquibel, he has numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Preceded in death by his father Richard Esquibel and brother LP Esquibel.

Following Michael's wishes, cremation has taken place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville, Kansas. A memorial service celebrating Mike's life will be held at the Inter State Fair grounds Coffeyville, KS, September 14 at 2:00.

The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to the Kansas High School Rodeo Association Scholarship; these may be left with the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home 306 N. Cline Rd. Coffeyville, KS 67337.

To leave a condolence for the family online, visit Michael's memorial page at www.dwbfh.com