George Wensel Estess passed peacefully on July 18, 2026, surrounded by friends and family. He was survived by his devoted and loving wife, Julie Estess, and his children Erica, Rachael, and Clayton Estess.

George was born in Hollywood, FL, on November 21, 1945 to Wensel and Sue Ann. Known as “Knipper” in his childhood, he was the oldest of four and adored by his siblings. Born with an endless sense of adventure and ambition, he got his pilot’s license at 16 years old and went to Stetson University on an ROTC scholarship. He joined the U.S. Army in 1967 and flew helicopters in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969, emerging with the rank of Captain and awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. George was editor in chief of the University of Florida Law Review before he graduated in 1973. He spent the following decades building a law firm and legacy with his friends and partners at Kerrigan, Estess, Rankin, McLeod and Thompson.

George was brilliant, funny, and generous. He held the rapt attention of not just a courtroom but any room. He recited poetry, incited philosophical debates, and told stories of his many adventures traveling the world, biking across the country, hang gliding, and flying planes. He was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel with a private reception to follow.