Charles Michael “Mike” Esslinger, age 66 of Clarkesville, Georgia, passed away on March 29, 2016 at his home after a long illness. Born in Emporia, Kansas, he was a son of William Eugene Esslinger of Loganville, Georgia and Margaret Jane Sullivan of Marietta, Georgia. Mr. Esslinger worked for the Department of Corrections for 15 years and spent the last twenty years of his life as a metal artist. His work was collected throughout the South East. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, the artist, Sarah Rakes Esslinger of Clarkesville; sons Asa Esslinger of Idaho and Ian Esslinger and wife, Maraiah Esslinger of Washington, and daughter Amie Esslinger and her husband, Jared Yarsevich of Atlanta; granddaughters Sonora Esslinger and Freyja Esslinger Yarsevich; brother, James Esslinger and sister, Jan Parrish. Memorial services are at 1:15 pm on Saturday, April 30, 2016 in the Meeting Room at Ruby C. Fulbright Aquatic Center, 120 Paul Franklin Road, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523. An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home and Habersham Crematory of Cornelia (706/778-8668) are in charge of arrangements.