Thomas William Esser of Los Osos, CA passed away in August 2025.
Tom was born in Mankato, Minnesota in December 1948 to William George, and Anna Margaret (Hodson) Esser. He grew up in Bemidji and Springfield, MN and graduated from Springfield High School. Much of his free time was spent on his aunt and uncle’s farm near Mankato. He loved it there and always held dear the memories.
Tom attended Mankato State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science. degree in chemistry and earth science. Following college, he enlisted in the Navy and served for three years. While in the Navy, he met and later married his future wife Michele Elise Milne of Camarillo.
Following his Navy service, he spent several years teaching high school science and obtained a master’s degree from Humboldt State in science curriculum. He then began his nearly 34-year career with PG&E, working at Diablo Canyon. His first position was in training. During that time, he earned a master’s degree from Boise State in instructional technology. Next, and until retirement, he worked as an environmental coordinator/manager.
Tom enjoyed nature and, as a docent, led hikes on the Pecho Coast Trail to the Port San Luis Lighthouse. He volunteered at the Morro Bay Natural History Museum and for the Morro Coast Audubon Society at Sweet Springs Nature Preserve. After retirement Tom became a San Luis Obispo County Master Gardner and volunteered for the organization in many ways. Most importantly, he spent many hours serving his church and enjoying his family.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Michele; his daughters and sons-in-law Elizabeth (Eric) Ekdahl, Mary (Daniel) Cavaliere, and Margaret (Michael) Smiley; grandchildren Elijah, Ellyse, and Everley Ekdahl; Samuel, William, and Grant Cavaliere; Aurora and Amelia Smiley; and his sister Mary (David) Gross.
Memorial donations can be made to World Vision or the food bank of your choice.
