Ronald Kessler Obituary

Ronald L. "Ron" Kessler

Ronald L. "Ron" Kessler, 78, of Van Wert, went to be with his Lord and Savior at 4:57 a.m. Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at Van Wert Health.

He was born Nov. 13, 1943, in Roswell, New Mexico, to the late Joseph and Hattie (Whipple) Kessler. He married the love of his life, Sharon R. Diehl on July 4, 1964. Together, they shared 58 years of marriage.

Ron was raised on a farm in Carey and graduated from Findlay High School in 1961. Ron graduated from Fort Wayne Commercial College with a degree in data processing which paved the way for a long career in Information Technology. He worked for GTE Data Services in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Durham, North Carolina, and GTE Government Services in Fairfax, Virginia, before heading up the IT department for Crestview Local Schools. Ron retired in 2007.

Ron adored his family and cherished the time spent with them. He was former treasurer and president of Van Wert Lions Club as well as former treasurer of Van Wert Historical Society. He enjoyed fixing and collecting vintage BB guns, watching Ohio State basketball and NASCAR races, fishing, and was a Ford and Mustang enthusiast. He loved flowers (especially tulips), maintaining his yard, and tending to his garden.

A member of Calvary Evangelical Church, Ron's faith was first and foremost in his life. He held fast in his beliefs and supported many ministries. He also had a heart for helping others.

Ron is survived by his wife, Sharon Kessler of Van Wert; daughter, Michelle (Erik) Burkheimer of Charlotte, North Carolina; son, Mark (Dottie) Kessler of Bentonville, Arkansas; sisters, Mary Ross of Lagrange and Grace (Dan) DeVaul of North Baltimore; brothers, Don (Gina) Kessler of Florence, Arizona, and Lyle (Kathy) Kessler of Findlay; five grandchildren, Aaron (Andjela) Burkheimer, Zachary Burkheimer, Micah Burkheimer, DeAnna (Greg) Miller, and Zion (Tessa) Zawko; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his sisters, Ruth Ellen Kessler and Virginia (David) Bromelow; and grandson, T.R.E.L. Zawko.

A celebration of Ron's life will be 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022, at Calvary Evangelical Church, 10686 Van Wert-Decatur Rd., Van Wert, Ohio, 45891, with the Rev. Clark Williman officiating.

Family and friends will be received 12:30-1:30 p.m. Sunday at the church.

For those who prefer, memorial contributions in Ron's memory may be made to Calvary Evangelical Church or American Leukemia And Lymphoma Society.

To share in Ron's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington Street, Van Wert, Ohio, 45891.