Elizabeth R. Esselman

Elizabeth R. “Betty” Esselman passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 89.

Betty was born in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Alex and Elizabeth (Koltay) Horvath. She grew up in Stephenson, MI, and helped in her father’s grocery store. In 1956, Betty married Patrick Esselman, eventually moving to Watertown in 1963. He preceded her in death in 1987.

Early in life, Betty attended Alverno College in Milwaukee and earned her music degree. She taught piano for many years and was a very good pianist.

Patrick and Betty owned and operated the A&W restaurant in Watertown from 1973 to 1983.

Betty volunteered for Hospice in its early stages and found great satisfaction helping others in their final days. This lead to her returning to school at age 50 to earn her RN degree. Betty then worked at Rogers Hospital in Oconomowoc and Mendota Hospital in Madison where she retired from.

Betty’s hobbies that she enjoyed included fishing, and she never passed up an invitation from anyone who asked her to go. She was passionate about gardening, both flowers and vegetables. Betty also enjoyed canning, knitting, and quilting.

Betty is survived by: 7 children Kay (Robert) Talajkowski, Mary (Teri) Esselman, Patrick (Charlotte) Esselman Jr., Amy Zimmerman, Paul (LouAnn) Esselman, Sara (Kerry) Kirkpatrick, Polly (Lyle) Reott; her cuddle buddy Sophie; grandchildren Dan (Sabrina), Rosie, Pam, David (Jessi), Eric, Alex, Emily (Tim), Kailee (Kyle), Joe (Katie), Leeann (John), Lucas (Cori), Sandor, and Jackson; great-grandchildren Alyssa, Kyla, Nora, Grayson E., Harlan, Dakota, Gwynn, Oliver, Addison, Brooklyn, Jacee, Amelia, and Grayson K.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, husband Patrick Sr., brother Frank, granddaughter Carolyn, an infant grandson, and son-in-law Lyle Zimmerman.

A Celebration of Betty’s life will be held at a later date.