James E. Kesler
James E. Kesler, 75, of Rochester, passed away at 2:01 p.m., Friday, Dec. 22, 2017 at his residence.
On Jan. 28, 1942, Kesler was born in Mentone to N.E. and Esther Miller Kesler. Growing up he shared his childhood with a brother Kenny. During their school years the Kesler family moved to Richland Township. Kesler was a proud Richland Center Wildcat, graduating in 1964 with the last class of RCHS.
Soon after graduation, patriotism beckoned, Kesler answered the call serving with the United States Army shortly after the Vietnam War.
Kesler and Kitty L Sayger married and shared many years of life’s adventures. From their union came a handsome son Blake. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of two grandchildren and a great-grandson.
A life member of the Manitou Moose Family Center, Kesler also held memberships with the Leroy Shelton American Legion Post # 36, Manitou VFW Post # 1343, the Elks and Eagles Fraternal Lodges. For the past six years, Kesler drove a school bus for Rochester Community Schools.
Left to cherish Kesler’s memory are a son Blake Kesler and wife Stacey of Kewanna; grandson: Zachery Kesler of Kewanna, granddaughter: Lyndy Szmara and husband Zachary of Logansport; great-grandson: Isaac Caleb Szmara; brother: Kenny Kesler and wife Karen of Rochester.
Preceding Kesler in death are his parents, beloved wife Kitty on Jan. 31, 2014, and sister Barb.
A celebration of the life of Kesler will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 29, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester with Pastor Zachary Szmara officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 28, and one hour prior to the service in the funeral home. Interment will be in the Rochester IOOF.