Jean Delores Kessler

Jean Delores Kessler lived a full vibrant life of 95 years. She entered the kingdom of heaven on July 29, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. In her last days, she talked about how excited she was for the surprise awaiting her in heaven.

Jean was born on Park Point, Duluth, MN on May 13, 1928 to Virginia and Earl Nichols. Her parents named her Jean after a Catholic saint and being of French origin.

Jean enjoyed telling stories of Joe Kessler, a handsome sailor stationed in the United States Coast Guard in Duluth. He came into her life, and they loved each other dearly since her age of 16. Their love endured being away from each other while Joe served in WWII. Upon his return, they were married on June 15, 1945 at Our Lady of Mercy Church on Park Point. They were blessed with 45 years of marriage until the time of his death.

Jean’s faith was unfailing and was her compass throughout her life. She shared her love of God and strong faith with all her family. Even in her final days on earth, she told us to “keep your faith and your hand in God’s hand.” She honored Mother Mary by saying the rosary daily. In every home Jean lived, she had a stunning garden honoring Mary with a statue from her husband that she forever cherished.

Jean’s greatest gift to the world was being a devoted wife, loving mother, and caring grandmother. Her home was an example of true love. She created family traditions that are carried on throughout generations. There was always a delicious meal being prepared, desserts on the counter and coffee brewing. All were welcome at Jean’s table. Holidays were celebrated with beautiful decorations and treats. Jean decorated cakes for every special occasion and sent a heartfelt handwritten card. Jean wrote letters that flowed eloquently like reading a touching story. She was the lifeline for keeping the family informed of everyone’s lives. She never missed an event, celebration, family gathering or invitation to travel with her family. She especially loved traveling to her beloved Park Point in Duluth where she grew up. Jean exuded style, class and grace every day of her life.

Jean is proceeded in death by her husband Joseph, father and mother, Earl and Virigina Nichols, siblings, Arther, Dorothy, Dale, Joyce and Ronald. Son-in-Law, Keith Heinzen, Grandchild David Joseph Houdek.

As the matriarch of her family, she is survived by her 10 children Mike Kessler (Mary), Diana Kessler, Rosemary Heinzen (late Keith), Theresa Houdek (David), Joseph Kessler (Lori), Daniel Kessler (Diane), Elizabeth Meyer (Jim), Jeanne Boyle (Patrick), Ronald Kessler (Michele), Jennifer Bolen (Brian) and 26 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.

Family would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the staff at Evergreen Terrace for the tender loving care she received while there and to the caring LeRoyer Hospice staff.

A funeral Mass for Jean will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at St. Wencel’s Catholic Church at 11:00 AM with Father Joel Sember officiating. Visitation will take place at the church prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with a Rosary at 10:45 AM. A private burial will be held at St. Wencel's Church Cemetery.