FOWLER – Dave "Cowboy" Eslick, 80, passed away Thursday, March 12, 2026, at his home in Fowler.

Dave was born November 29, 1945, in Dodge City, Kansas, the son of Cye and Lydia (Zimmerman) Eslick. He attended Mullinville High School and spent much of his life working with his hands and living the kind of life he loved most — outdoors, on the road, around animals, and on his own terms.

Dave worked as a truck driver for many years, including nearly 30 years with National Commodities. Over the course of his life, he also worked for Great Bend Feeding as a cowboy and maintenance man and spent time farming in Ford County. Much of his life was spent on the road behind the wheel of a truck, a life that suited him well.

When he wasn't working, Dave enjoyed relaxing with a good Louis L'Amour western novel or watching classic western shows like Gunsmoke. Dave had a personality people didn't forget. He was stubborn, quick with a comment, and never short on opinions. Those who knew him could always count on a little good-natured ribbing and conversation. His favorite question was often a simple one: "What else is going on?"

Those who knew Dave understood he had lived through many challenges and carried on in his own determined way.

Survivors include three children: John Eslick of Bucklin; Alicia Garcia and husband Joey of Larned; and Rickie Eslick of Logan, New Mexico. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Destiny Bolin and Anthony Cepero, Reno and Heather Gumpenberger, Antonio Garcia, and Alejandra Garcia; a sister, Ruth Babcock of Dodge City; and his companion, Linda Pippin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son, William Lee Eslick; and a brother, Lyle Eslick.

A memorial graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Hillcrest Cemetery in Mullinville. Cremation has taken place and there will be no public viewing.

Dave will be remembered for his stubborn spirit, his love of the open road, his strong will, his sense of humor, and the many conversations shared over coffee and breakfast tables. Whether behind the wheel of a truck or visiting with friends, he lived life in his own way and left behind memories that will be carried by those who knew him.

The family suggests memorials to SWKS K9 Pawsibilities in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.