Robert "Bob" Esserman

       Robert "Bob" Esserman, a founding member of Liberty Twp. Fire Department, with 44 years of service, passed away on December 14, 2022 in Florida.  He was born on March 13, 1929 in Liberty Township to Edward and Olive (Bull) Esserman, both of whom preceded him in death. On April 27, 1957 in Hebron, IN, he married the love of his life, Bernice (Blank) Esserman, who preceded him in death in 2000.

       He is survived by his children, Donald Esserman of Winamac, IN and Mary (George Nickos) Esserman of Chesterton, IN; his grandchildren: Kevin Wesley of Chesterton, IN, Matt (Laura) Wesley of Valparaiso, IN, and Kaylee Esserman of Portage, IN; his former step-grandchildren: Marc, Adam, and Megan Royce and Rob Wesley; his great-granddaughter, Kailey Wesley; his former daughter-in-law, Patty Esserman; and by his numerous nieces and nephews.

       In addition to his parents and wife, he was also preceded in death by all of his siblings: Ruth (Leroy) Silk, Walter (Margaret) Esserman, Harold (Lucille) Esserman, Leslie (Anna) Esserman, Louise (Thomas) Speer, Fred Esserman, Elma (Arthur) Bloomberg, and Edward (Marjorie) Esserman Jr.; and by his former son-in-law, Raymond Wesley.

       Bob served the citizens of Liberty Township, as the department's Inspector, Investigator, Instructor, as well as Assistant Chief. Bob was a huge proponent of training, especially in LP gas firefighting, taught at numerous State Fire Schools and several departments throughout the NWI region. Bob was also a founding member of the then Porter Co. Fire Chief's Association. He was also a dedicated member of the IVFA, serving as our District One Chairman, Secretary and several years as Public Relations Director for NW Indiana and in 1976, he was awarded Mr. IVFA. Bob often attended IVFA's Conventions, all over the state, up until a few years ago.

       Bob was very passionate about fire investigation and a longtime member of the International Association of Arson Investigators. His passion for the fire service continues to impact area departments, his son Don, daughter Mary and even his grandsons Kevin and Matthew.

       Bob proudly served his country in the United States Army. He served as reserve police officer for Porter County Sheriff’s Department. He was also a member of the VFW and Moose Lodge in Florida.

       Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 19, 2022 at 11 a.m. at White-Love Funeral Home, 525 S 2nd St., Chesterton, IN. Burial will follow at Chesterton Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 18, 2022 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. with the IVFA Service at 7:30 p.m.

       Memorial donations may be given to: P.C. Search and Rescue Team.

Please share your wonderful memories with the family at: www.whitelovefuneralhome.com.

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