Obituary of Eddie Bruce Essy

Eddie Bruce Essy

 

August 2, 1953 to January 7, 2019

 

Accomplished traveler, wine connoisseur, and ladies man, Eddie Essy enjoyed the finer things in life and lived fully until he passed in his sleep on Saturday, January 7th, 2019. He spent his last days lounging by the beach, wining, dining, and celebrating life in Cabo, Mexico with his four children Crystal Ketterhagen, Ashley Essy, Lauren Essy, and Brandon Essy. The day he passed, he expressed to his best buddy Dave Burger that it was “the best trip” he’s ever had, which says a lot because Eddie has traveled a lot.

 

Eddie loved visiting exotic countries to study their architecture, culture, and enjoy local fare. Though he often frequented the finest restaurants in the area, he’d get just as excited to dine at a hole-in-the-wall eatery known only by locals for its great food. Dining with Eddie always felt like a celebration—an ode to life.

 

Before retiring in 2018 and moving to Scottsdale, Arizona, Eddie lived in Walnut Creek, CA for 32 years. There he raised a loving family and built his construction business Essy Construction, Inc. His strong work ethic, extensive experience, and passion for beautiful well-built homes, made his business a great success. Since establishing the company in 1978, Eddie has built and remodeled hundreds of homes. If you were to visit him in Walnut Creek, he’d likely take you on a tour to see some of his recent projects and show them off like a proud craftsman.

 

Though his business allowed him to live a lavish life, his children have always been his greatest pride. A loving and supportive father, he expressed his love generously and often. His grandchildren Dante Ketterhagen, Hugo Ketterhagen, and Knox Leedum, affectionately called him “Papa Eddie” and enjoyed their crazy eights card games and fighting over the newspaper.

 

Eddie loved to golf, dance, and driving around town in his Aston Martin with the top down. On Sundays you could find him at the farmers market picking out the freshest peaches, apples, and cucumbers. When out and about, Eddie could strike up a conversation with strangers as easily as with family or friends. Having been born and raised on a farm in Napa Valley, CA and later becoming a wine connoisseur, he enjoyed day trips to Napa’s wine country to discover new vintages and tastings on the vineyards.

 

The life philosophies that carry on with his children and friends are to live life to the fullest, be proud of who you are, and take it “one date at time.”

 

Private services held for family and close friends.

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