Gerald 'Jerry' Kessler

Obituary Gerald "Jerry" Eugene Kessler, age 64, of Garnavillo, IA, died Monday, April 4, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family. Jerry was born on January 18, 1958 to James "Jimbo" and Carla (Kramer) Kessler in Elkader, IA. Jerry always was a character, he spent most of his childhood making memories with his family. His love for farming can be attributed to his grandfather Newel who Jerry was very fond of. His summers growing up included him being a member of the towns swim team which helped keep him out of trouble. In high school he was a member of the Central drama & wrestling team. After graduating Jerry married Crystal Stickfort, they had two children, Jerod and Kate. They later divorced. Jerry spent most of his working career with Water Tower Paint & Repair Co. out of Clear Lake, Iowa. He was a successful foreman and sales representative where he built many long-lasting friendships and relationships. When Jerry was not high up on a water-tower he could be found taking down trees, hunting, raising chickens, playing foosball or spending time with his family. Spring mushroom hunting was always one of his favorite times. Jerrys door was always open, everyone was welcome at his house & he always had stories to tell. He was known to spend time in the kitchen cooking or baking, he loved sharing whatever he had made. Jerry took a lot of pride in passing those family recipes down. He spent several years with his "hunny" Lori Pope until they went their separate ways. In his later years much of his time was spent fishing and tending to his farm. He was very proud of his grandchildren & loved having them around the house. Jerry will be remembered for his quick-witted sense of humor, his famous one-liners and his big heart. He will be sadly missed by many good friends and his children & grandchildren; his son Jerod (Sarah) Kessler; Logan, Allison, Lexie, Rylan, Braylan, Great Grandchild Luna, his daughter Kate (JJ Berns) Kessler, Kaitlyn, Lilly, Kael, Kason, his sister Linda (Terry) Farmer, his brother Steven "Kris" Kessler, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, his infant brother Jimmy Kessler, Carl Keith Kessler, Danny Nemer and sister-in-law Stacey Kessler. Services Visitation Saturday April 9, 2022 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Tuecke-Allyn Funeral Home and Crematory Services 001 South Industrial Park Rd Garnavillo, IA 52049-0035