Obituary of Robert E. Esbenshade

Robert E. Esbenshade, 80, Lancaster, PA, passed from this life to eternity on Thursday morning, November 14, 2013 at Lancashire Hall following a lengthy illness. Born in Circleville, OH, he was the son of the late Musser A. and W. Pauline Heath Esbenshade. He was the husband of Joan E. Austin Esbenshade for 57 years on January 14. Bob was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lancaster where he had served on the church council and as an usher. He was a 1951 graduate of Manheim Twp. High School and earned an Associate's Degree in Mechanical Drafting from Stevens Technical School. Bob was employed by the former Hamilton Watch Company as a machine and tool designer and retired from Hamilton's successor, Bulova Technology, in 1995. Bob enjoyed hunting; however his favorite pastime was spending time at Dewey Beach in Delaware and fishing off the Outer Banks. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Jeffrey R., husband of Mindy S. Miller Esbenshade, of Lititz, PA; six grandchildren, Erin, Samantha, Nicole, wife of Tom Greenfield, Maggie, Jessica, and Ryan; and a sister, Carol A. Esbenshade of Lancaster. He was preceded in death by a brother, William M. Esbenshade. The family wishes to express appreciation to Lancashire Hall Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and, especially, the Rosemont unit, for the loving care given to Robert. A memorial service will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 500 Pearl Street, Lancaster, PA on Saturday, November 23, 2013 at 11:00 AM with Pastor David D. Kreider officiating. Interment will be private. There will be no viewing. The family will receive guests at the church on Saturday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. The family requests that flowers please be omitted. If desired, contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 3544 North Progress Avenue, Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9638. A webcast of the service will be available beginning the day following the service at www.spencefuneralservices.com.