Gary Essman, 67, of Sterling, died July 28, 2011, in Sterling. Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 1, at Trinity Lutheran Church, with the Rev. James R. Nash officiating. Services will conclude at the church.

Mr. Essman was born Sept. 29, 1943, in Beatrice, Neb., to Elmer H. and Adela (Orth) Essman. He graduated from high school.

He was a chief executive officer in the banking business.

On Oct. 23, 1971, he married Barbara J. Kleppinger in Beatrice.

He moved to Sterling in 2003 from North Platte, Neb.

Mr. Essman was a member and elder of Trinity Lutheran Church. He was a member of the Lions Club in Sterling and Elwood, Neb., the Nebraska Bankers Association and past member of the National and Nebraska Auctioneer Associations. He enjoyed hunting and golfing.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara J. Essman of Sterling; son, David J. Essman of Kearney, Neb.; daughter, Jennifer L. Klawitter and husband Scott of Yutan, Neb.; sister, Karen K. Mains of Beatrice; granddaughter, Addison E. Klawitter of Yutan; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Adela Essman; cousin and godchild, Cody Essman; and father-in-law, Phil H. Kleppinger.

Memorials may be made to the Gary Essman Memorial.

Chaney-Reager Funeral Home in Sterling handled the arrangements.