Charles David Esche

Many locals will recall seeing Charles riding down the Newburgh Rivertown Trail proudly wearing his Marine Corps hat, honoring his service in the 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune during the Korean War.

Charles had an illustrious career as a jack of all trades, but was professionally trained as a mechanical engineer at the University of Evansville. He put his education to use as an engineer at Whirlpool, where his ingenuity earned him two patients. One in particular brought him great joy, it was his patent that helped created what he referred to as “orange slice ice.” This is ice from a home refrigerator in the shape of an orange slice, revolutionary technology at the time.

After retiring from Whirlpool, he went on to work at the Evansville State Hospital and as an entrepreneur building homes. Charles loved to work and went on to have yet another “career”working on his investment at the Forum Properties.

When not working, Charles and his wife of 69 years, Betty Esche, were adventure seekers traveling the world. Charles was the master of the road trip and even took RV trips to Mexico in the 60s, long before it was trendy.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, and son, Tim Esche. Surviving daughters, Rhonda (Roger) Kroeger, Amy Gruszczynski and four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Private services were held.

The family would like to thank Newburgh Health Care for the great care both dad and mother received.

Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderNewburghChapel.com.