Jeanine “Jean” Joyce Essman, daughter of Bob and Marva (Hayek) Kasl was born January 3, 1961 in Crete, Nebraska. She passed away July 6 at her home in Lincoln with her family by her side. She was beloved by all she touched, especially by her husband Paul and their children Andrew Kasl and Samantha Lena. Jean was a farm girl who knew she wanted to be a teacher like her Mom from the start. Although the majority of her students were pre-school special education, many of them would recognize her years later and call out “Miss Jean!” when they saw her. Jean enjoyed spending time with her family and attending Andrew’s and Samantha’s many activities. Before her passing, she loved being part of both children’s weddings and helping to find their first homes. She was a special aunt and great aunt to her nieces and nephews.
Jean was confirmed in the Dorchester Methodist Church and later joined St. Mark’s Methodist Church in Lincoln. She went to Dorchester schools and graduated with the class of 1979. After graduating from Kearney State College in 1983, she taught special education in Kansas for two years, and later received her Master’s Degree from Doane College. Jean then continued to teach in Lincoln for 23 years. She was a member of the Dorchester Legion Auxiliary and the ZCBJ Tabor Lodge for over 50 years. She was very proud of her Czech heritage and she worked with 4-H and youth activities. Jean enjoyed gardening and she loved to read. She was always there to support and take care of those in need.
Jean is survived by her husband Paul Essman (32 years), children Andrew (Natalie) Essman of Eagle and Samantha (Christopher) Hobelman of Waverly, parents Bob and Marva Kasl, sisters Sandy (Chuck) Rains and Judy (Mark) Bors, and sister-in-law Sheri Kasl, all of Dorchester, father-in-law Roger Essman of Lincoln, sisters-in-law Lisa Essman (Mark Vucenich) of Pennsylvania and Amy Essman (Don Gentle) of Missouri, special friend Belinda Becker of Omaha, and many nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and students. She was preceded in death by her brothers Bobby Kasl and Brad Kasl, mother-in-law Larae Essman, and grandparents George and Emma Kasl and Lumir and Evelyn Hayek.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to Project Purple, Early Childhood Programs, or Lincoln Children’s Zoo would be appreciated. Condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 14 at 2:00 pm, St. Mark’s Methodist Church, 8550 Pioneers Blvd, Lincoln with Pastor Kara Hillhouse officiating. Private interment will be held at a later date. Trump Funeral Services, 1600 West “O” Street, Lincoln are handling the arrangements.
“This is the day the Lord has made; Rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:24
The Kasl/Essman family, I am so sorry for the loss of Jean my country cousin. Jean was a delightful lady to know and be a relative of as I was growing up. I pray for comfort and strength as you go through this loss of a beautiful wife, mother, sister, daughter and friend.
Our sincere sympathy and and special thoughts are with you during these difficult times. May she rest in peace.
Jeanine, it breaks my heart to know that you left us. I will always cherish the moments and friendship we had growing up. You are in the arms of the Lord. May the Lord embrace your family and give them comfort.
We’re so very sorry for your loss. My maiden name is Essman and am the eldest daughter of Eddie Dean Essman from DeWitt. My husband Larry is Joe Mares first cousin and a cousin of Sheri Kasl and his father Milo Brchan is from Dorchester. We are sadden that we are unable to attend services for we are currently out of town. Our heaven has a new special angel.
Our Deepest Sympathy,
Larry and Rodene Brchan
We made a donation in Jeanine “Jean” Joyce Essman memory to the Childern’s Zoo. Jean was a special lady, who loved and taught many children in Lincoln area. Many will miss her smile and caring hugs.
I am always reminded of dragonflies when a love one passes. “Dear dragonfly your wings were ready to sore to heaven, but we will keep you forever in our hearts!”
Bob & Marva, we are so sorry to learn the passing of Jean. We speak for the whole Pasek & Wanek families when we say that our prayers are with you & yours at this time.
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We remember Jean well from all the baseball and football games. What a sweet lady and dedicated mom she was, she left you with some wonderful memories. Prayers to you all. Cory and Audra Cotton and kids
Paul, Andrew and Sam
So sorry for your loss. Jean was a special lady and Kristi reminded me that she was always smiling. May the Lord wrap his arms around you in comfort.
Dear Family of Jean,
I worked with Jean several years as a substitute teacher for her and for her co-teacher as well, so I saw Jean at work with the kids. She was funny and so kind too. She had the kids in her hands and they loved her. I can’t believe she is gone way too soon. I loved Jean and will keep her in my memory. I pray God will continue to be near your family as you go on without her by your side. So glad to hear she got to see the kids marry and buy homes. That is always a mother’s dream and she fulfilled that. Hugs to all.