Paul David Esser

Paul David Esser, 32, of Derby, KS, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, at St. Lukes Hospital in Kansas City, MO after a courageous battle with bile duct cancer. Paul had a tremendous impact on the lives of those he touched and will forever be remembered and missed. Born on September 1, 1992, Paul was a Senior Accountant, fitness coach, golf enthusiast, incredible husband, and caretaker to their numerous pets. He is known for his resilience, incredible drive and positive mindset.

He is survived by his wife, Hannah (Hughes) Esser; his parents Steve and Mary Jean Esser; siblings Christy Simonsen (Jim), Amy Denney (Matt), Kim Mahoney (Matt), Matt Esser (Gena), close sister-in-law Helen Hughes (Hannah’s twin sister); numerous nieces and nephews, many other family members and close friends, and his beloved pets which the family referred to as their ‘mini zoo’. Brother John Esser (Vera) predeceased him. In his final moments, Paul was surrounded by love with more people at his side than the hospital chaplain had ever witnessed.

A benefit fundraiser in Paul’s honor will be held at Maloney’s Sports Bar and Grill in Overland Park, KS on June 21, 2025, from 5pm to 9pm. Celebration of Life in Derby, KS at Madison Avenue Central Park Pavilion on Saturday July 26th from 11:00am - 2pm with inurnment at Hillcrest Cemetery following.

Memorials to St. Lukes Foundation for benefit of the ICU at 901 E. 104th St. #100S, Kansas City, MO 64131 or the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation at 5526 West 13400 South, #510, Herriman, Utah, 84096 or Unleashed Pet Rescue at 5918 Broadmoor St. Mission, KS 66202.