Harold William Kessler, 94, of Stewardson, IL went home to be with his Lord on Monday, April 14, 2008.He joined his beloved wife of 71 years, Wilma Gervaise Knierim Kessler, his parents, and his three sisters: Lola Chappelear, Loraine Swank and Oma McCormick.
Left to cherish his memories are his three children: Patsy Lenz and husband Larry of Strasburg, IL, Jerry Kessler and wife Lynne of Effingham, IL and Debra Susan Tobeyof Belleville, IL; his seven grandchildren: Trena Hatcher and husband Wayne of West Point, VA, Tim Lenz and wife Delreen of Strasburg, Scott Kessler and wife Laura of Watson, IL, Kathy Lybarger and husband AndyandEric Kessler and wife Jamie of Effingham, Serene Tobey of Belleville, IL and Lucas Tobey of Olathe, KA; eleven great grandchildren: Caleb, Seth, and Ethan Hatcher, Lindsay Kessler, Katelyn, Grace and A.J. Lybarger, Alicia Tristan, Emma and Logan KesslerAlso surviving is a sister-in-law Hazel Kepler of Decatur, IL.
Harold was born Nov. 5, 1913 at Mode, IL the son of William and Ella Melissa Spearman Kessler.
He graduated from Stewardson High School in 1932 where he was active in school organizations and especially enjoyed playing football.
Harold was a lifetime farmer who loved working the land and caring for his animals.He also worked as a custodian and bus driver for the Stewardson-Strasburg schools for fourteen years.He liked working at the school and especially liked the association with the many students, many of whom fondly called him “Grandpa”.
Harold’s walk through this life reflected his service and love for, and to, others.He and his wife Wilma were 4-H Leaders for the Prairie Schooners Club for twenty-five years and were also youth group leaders at the church.He was also was a member and supporter of the Farm Bureau organization.
He was always willing to lend others a helping hand and enjoyed working with others. He worked many years in the Stewardson Historical Society where he held offices in the organization and helped with celebrations. He was a member of the Stewardson United Methodist Church where he was served as chairman of the board, usher and several other offices at the church throughout the years.He has been a member of the Stewardson Lions Club for many years where held several offices and helped with their activities in the community.
Funeral services will be held lat 10:30 AM Saturday April 19, 2008 in the Stewardson United Methodist Church.Pastor Nadine Preston will officiate.Visitation will be held from 4:00-8:00 PM Friday in Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson.Burial will be in Stewardson Cemetery.Memorials can be made to a 4-H Scholarship Fund in Harold’s name.
