Dennis L Esterle Sr., 86, of Louisville, Kentucky passed away on Friday, May 23, 2025.
He was born in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Edwin and Thelma Esterle on February 25, 1939. He was known by many names, Dad, Big D, Uncle Den, and Mr. Esterle. Denny graduated from St. George Elementary School, Flaget High School, and Bellarmine College. He was a devout Catholic and was a member of Resurrection Parish then St. Ignatius Martyr. When Denny was in high school and college he worked for Kroger and then after graduation he began his career, spanning 40 years, being a superior math teacher at Trinity High School. During his tenure he was the head of the math department, the disciplinarian, and the principal of summer school. Denny was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Trinity High School and also at Flaget High School (which is on display at St. X High School).
Denny's interests were specific...his lawn was always perfectly groomed, if a dandelion dared enter his yard he was out there with a butter knife removing it. Later on, he immersed himself in gardening growing all kinds of vegetables such as tomatoes, kale, and green peppers. He enjoyed listening to music, especially Elvis Presley, watching the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Yankees until the games made him too nervous. Later in life he would binge reruns of NCIS, Castle, Lifetime and Hallmark movies. Denny also loved good food, a good fish sandwich, oysters, and grilling out. He would end every meal with something sweet, his favorites being a giant Hershey bar or cherry cheesecake. You could find him drinking Diet Dr. Pepper, a good highball, or a cold bottle of beer...only in a bottle!
Denny was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Thelma Esterle (Biven) and Edwin Esterle; his sister, Monica Davis; and his brother, John Esterle.
Left to cherish Denny's memory is the love of his life, wife of 64 years, Mary Karon (Roos) Esterle; his children, Leesa Hayes (Richard), Dennis L Esterle, Jr., Jeffrey Esterle (Misty), Julee Gordon (Michael); 6 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Stan Esterle (Rose Ann); sister-in-law, Sherry Esterle; brother-in-law, Norman Davis; and many extended family members, dear friends, and previous students.
Visitation for Denny will be Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St Ignatius Martyr, 1818 Rangeland Rd, Louisville, Kentucky 40219, followed by his Memorial Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. There will be a bereavement lunch right after the service in cafeteria at church.
Expressions of sympathy in Denny's memory may be directed to St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic church.
Arrangements are under the direction of Arch L. Heady & Son Funeral Home - Okolona Home, "Where Personal And Sincere Service Is Tradition.”