Earl R. Esping

Earl Robert Esping, 95, of McPherson, Kansas, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on December 21, 1929, in Lindsborg, Kansas, the son of Clarence Philip and Alice Tillie Bernadine (Morine) Esping. Earl graduated from Lindsborg High School and went on to attend Bethany College in Lindsborg.

In 1952, Earl met the love of his life, Mabel Elizabeth McCoy. A year later, he was drafted into the United States Army. While home on leave in July 1954, Earl and Mabel became engaged, and they were married on September 18, 1955, by Rev. Harold Herndon at the First Christian Church in McPherson.

Earl proudly served his country during the Korean War and remained a dedicated veteran throughout his life. He was a life member of V.F.W. Post #2715.

He was retired from NCRA where he was a purchasing manager. Earl farmed his entire life on the family farmstead.

A humble and devoted Christian, Earl was an active and longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church. His faith guided his life, and his kindness touched everyone who knew him.

Earl deeply loved his family and found great joy in their time together. He also had a passion for traveling and exploring new places with those he loved.

He is survived by his three children, Lori Gibson (Rob) of Statesboro, GA, Dana Oliver of Garfield, AR, and John Esping (Jill) of Lindsborg, KS; a sister, CeCelia Anderson of Salina, KS; six grandchildren, Tanner Gibson (Anne), Jordi Sears (Andrew), Derek Oliver (Darcy), Lindsey Regier (Matt), Andrew Esping (Keegan), and Molli Reilly (Jackson); and twelve great-grandchildren, Emma Gibson, Zoe Gibson, Caleb Sears, Allie Sears, Dayton Oliver, Deegan Oliver, Dristan Oliver, Benjamin Regier, Adalyn Regier, Avery Esping, J.D. Esping, and Boaz Reilly. He is also survived by many extended relatives and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence & Alice Esping; his wife, Mabel; and his son-in-law, Ed Oliver.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Stockham Family Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in McPherson, with Pastor Peter Rehwaldt officiating. A private burial with Military Honors will precede the service at Elmwood Cemetery in Lindsborg.

Memorial donations may be made to Coram Deo Fellowship in Lindsborg or Kansas Honor Flights, in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.