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The Visionary Leadership of "Mr. Estero"

Don Eslick was a visionary community leader who devoted many years to improving the quality of life in Estero. For many years, he served as President and Chairman of the Estero Council of Community Leaders (ECCL), the predecessor organization to Engage Estero. Under his leadership and through the dedicated efforts of the ECCL and its many volunteers, Don played a pivotal role in helping establish Estero as an independent municipality in December 2014.

He was a tireless advocate for responsible growth, thoughtful planning, preservation of Estero's character, improved health care, environmental stewardship, and the many qualities that make Estero a special place to live. His leadership laid the foundation for today's Village to grow while maintaining its distinctive character and quality of life.

Many in Estero knew Don affectionately as "Mr. Estero." In 2025, the Village of Estero formally commemorated his contributions, recognizing the extraordinary role he played in shaping the community.

"Don believed deeply in Estero and in the responsibility residents have to help shape their community's future," said Engage Estero former President Jim Gilmartin.

We are profoundly grateful to Don and his wife for this extraordinary expression of confidence in Engage Estero. Their bequest ensures that their commitment to Estero will continue to benefit generations to come.

Engage Estero is deeply honored to announce that the estate of the late Don Eslick and his wife has made a generous bequest to Engage Estero. This thoughtful gift is a lasting expression of their commitment to the community they loved and to Estero's future.

You, Too, Can Leave a Legacy for Estero

The Eslicks' generosity offers others who share their love for Estero the opportunity to consider making a lasting contribution. A bequest is a charitable gift provided through a person's estate plan. It can take several forms, including:

• A specific dollar amount.

• A percentage of an estate.

• A gift of particular assets.

• The remainder of an estate after other beneficiaries and obligations have been addressed.

A gift can be designated through a will, living trust or, where appropriate, a beneficiary designation. Donors should consult their attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional to determine the approach that is appropriate for their individual circumstances.