Jessica Mary Kessler
March 02, 1952 - May 31, 2018
Obituary
Verona-Jessica M. Kessler, age 66, peacefully passed away on Thursday, May 31, 2018 surrounded by her family. She was born on March 2, 1952, in Beaver Dam, the daughter of George and Florence (Jacobs) Hartman. Jessica was employed with Oakhill Correctional Institute as a Correctional Sergeant retiring in 2014. She was a member of Grace Evangelical Church and lived by her strong Christian faith. Jessica was active in helping with Special Olympics and had a variety of interests including horseback riding, theatre, arts, gardening, writing, her pets, cooking and baking but enjoyed most of all the time she spent with her family. Jessica is survived by her children, Michael (Justine) Kessler, Peter Kessler, Elise (Jason) McFarlane, Christian Kessler and Florica Kessler; two sisters, Elizabeth Amato and Paula (Larry) Hartman-Harkey; three brothers, George (Barbara) Hartman, Gregory Hartman, and Peter (Sheri) Hartman; former husband, Stephen Kessler; and three grandchildren, Natalie Kessler, Abigail McFarlane, and Anna McFarlane. She was preceded in death by her parents George and Florence Hartman and brother-in-law, Joseph Amato. A Celebration of Jessica's life will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave, Middleton, at 11:00 am on Friday June 15, 2018, with the Rev. Roger Olson presiding. Burial will be held at Middleton Junction Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, from 10 AM until the time of the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to River Food Pantry or Samaritan's Purse. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Events
Visitation
Fri Jun 15, 2018 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Middleton • 7435 University Ave., Middleton, WI 53562
Celebration of Life
Fri Jun 15, 2018 @ 11:00 AM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Middleton • 7435 University Ave., Middleton, WI 53562
Photos
No photos of Jessica have been shared yet.
Memories
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Steve Kessler
Other •
I met Jessica when she was 19 and I was 25. We married 3 years later in 1974 and within 6 years had 3 beautiful children. In 1991, Jessica saw and heard the story of thousands of children living in terrible conditions in Romanian orphanages as a result of the aftermath of the former deposed dictator's outlawing birth control in a poor third world country (at the time). Because Jessica was, by far, the kindest, most selfless person I have ever met, it was only months before we (mostly she) had done the planning and made the arrangements to go to Romania and adopt. The end result was that our family blessedly increased twofold. We were divorced in 2003 and remained close friends who continued to support and help each other until her passing. My greatest pride in life is the family that we raised together, and I will miss her very much. Steve Kessler
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Mary Kelly
Other •
I'm sorry I will not be able to attend the funeral. I was most honored to attend her bedside as she was close to see her Savior. Jessica and I were both Sergeants at Oakhill. I was blessed to have met her and learn that she was a 'sister in Christ'. I'm sure she said many prayers for her inmates she supervised. Jessica was so giving, (to a fault) and loving! It was really hard to see what that horrible disease did to her. It seemed so unfair. God has his timing for our lives, and it was her time. She left no regrets as far as listening and following her Saviors Voice. I am so grateful for that. Jessica taught us a lot! I look up to the heavens now and smile knowing you are 'safe and sound' at HOME! <><
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Jean Listinsky
Other •
Peter Hartman, my sincerest condolences to you and your family on the loss of your sister.
Jean Listinsky
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Mark and Joan Emerson
Other •
Our sincerest condolences to the entire family on the loss of Jessica. We will not be able to attend the funeral. Know that we are sending prayers to all. The Emerson Family
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Mary Jo Clarkin-Nafzger
Other •
Praying for your family Pete & Sheri, asking God for
His Peace & Comfort as you remember all the good times you have had with your sister Jessica. So glad to know she is with The Lord & you will see her again! That is our Living Hope!!! Thanks be to God for the Victory! With love & continued prayers , Mary Jo Nafzger
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Kathryn M Fields
Other •
My most sincere condolences to the entire family on the loss of Jessica. I didn't know her well, but remember her as the most kind hearted and patient woman I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. I will not be able to attend the funeral after all, but will be in prayer for God's comfort and peace to be with all of you at this difficult time. I am so thankful that Jessica knew Jesus as her Lord and Savior - the Heavens rejoice in her salvation. Kathryn Fields