Joseph Essman, Sr., age 82, died August 13, 2018 at his home with his family by his side. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather (Papap). He was born November 5, 1935 in Sciotoville, Ohio to William Charles and Margaret Will Essman.

He was Associate Dean and Professor Emeritus of the Department of Engineering Technology at Ohio University.

Joe graduated from Portsmouth East High School, received his BSEE and his MSEE from Ohio University. Joe received his Ph.D from Purdue University. He created summer programs for women in engineering, minorities in engineering, and young people interested in engineering and math counts.

Joe was a member of American Society of Electrical Engineers, Emeritus Association, Institution of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Engineering Foundation, ETA KAPPA NU, Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics and Science, and Junior Engineering Technical Society. Joe was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Elks Lodge, Green and White Club, Ohio Bobcats Club, Kiwanis, and Jan's Fans.

Joe is survived by his wife Billie Jo, three daughters: Deborah Ann Essman, Diana Lynn (Mike) Blevins, and Denise (Harold) Gregory; two sons: Joseph Essman Jr. and Charles (Amber) Essman; nineteen grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Delores Essman, Sciotoville, OH, Laura Crisp, Pataskala, OH and brother Larry (Loretta) Essman, Portsmouth, OH.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter-in-law Kathy Essman, brother William Essman, and a brother-in-law Richard Crisp.

Funeral Mass will be Friday, August 17, 2018 at 10 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church with Msgr. Don Horak and Father Mark Moore. Friends may call Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 at Jagers & Sons Funeral Home. Vigil for the deceased will at 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

Share a memory, leave a note of condolence, or sign the on-line registry at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.