Edmund Essert

Waunakee - Edmund Essert was born March 8, 1936, in the town of Eichenbuhl, Germany to Karl and Johanna Essert. He passed away at home with family by his side, January 31, 2025. He married Shirley Bradley in 1959 and was blessed with 65 years of marriage. Edmund and Shirley have three children, Erich, Linda (Marty Dobson) and Brian (Mary Lou Kjorlie). Edmund and Shirley are blessed with 7 grandchildren, Elizabeth and Karl Essert, Lauren and Sean Dobson and Justin, Emily and Holly Essert.

Edmund immigrated to the United States at the age of 19 and met his wife to be, Shirley Ann Bradley, in Madison, WI. They met through the YAK Club in Madison and loved dancing and socializing with their friends. Edmund and Shirley had an amazing partnership emphasizing family first making a powerful team together.

Edmund joined the Madison Maennerchor the evening following his arrival in Madison and was a member for over 50 years. Edmund sang second tenor and served as the youngest president at that time. Edmund received several honors as a member of the Madison Maennerchor.

Edmund completed his studies in Miltenberg, Germany to be a tailor. His first job was at Karstens Men's Store, on the square. In the early 60's he started his own tailor shop Essert Custom Tailor. Later, he sponsored his brother Paul to join him working at the tailor shop, offering "German Craftsmanship" in their custom suits and garments. Edmund also sponsored Renate who later married Paul. In the late 70's, Edmund also owned and operated the Bavarian Inn, bar and restaurant.

Upon retirement, Edmund and Shirley spent their time between North Fort Myers, FL and Wisconsin. Edmund and Shirley returned to Wisconsin in their last 12 years.

Edmund was a fan of soccer, the Green Bay Packers, Badgers, boating and of course, professional wrestling.

Edmund leaves his family and grandchildren, as well as his brother Paul Essert and his sister-in-law, Renate; sister Hannelore Richter; sister-in-law Helga Essert and all his nieces and nephews.

Edmund is preceded in death by his father and mother, his brother Ottmar and his sister-in-law Ruth, his brother Valerian, and his granddaughter Emily.

Edmund was a long-time member of St. Peter’s, Madison, but due to construction the Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St Bernard’s Catholic Church, 2015 Parmenter Street, Middleton at 11 a.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025, with a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Burial will follow at St. Bernard’s Cemetery on Branch St.

The Essert family wishes to thank UW Health for years of expert care and especially Brighton Hospice for care during his final weeks.

Edmund lived the American dream.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.