Mr. Robert (Bob) C. Kessler, Jr., 67, of Verona unexpectedly passed away on March 7, 2020 in Chicago while visiting family.
Visitation at the Prout Funeral Home, 370 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona will be on Thursday, March 12 from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass and celebration of his exceptional life will be offered at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 32 Lakeside Ave., Verona on Friday, March 13 at 10:30 a.m.
Son of the late R. Clark and Harriett (Foust) Kessler, he was born on September 4, 1952 and grew up in Danville, Pa., and Muncy, Pa. Bob later lived in Williamsport, Pa. before moving to Verona in 1994.
He graduated from Muncy High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Susquehanna University, where he was president of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. A career human resources professional, he was a voice of reason to those around him and embodied his company’s commitment to protecting the dignity of its employees. He served as president of the America East News Summit and ran their annual conference for several years. In the latter part of his career, he was the director of Human Resources with Flexi-Van Leasing in Kenilworth. He was an avid reader of history and business. His hobbies included skiing, amateur photography and professional grandparenting.
Bob enjoyed Hallmark Christmas movies and trips with his family in his minivan to the Jersey shore, the Poconos, Knoebels Amusement Park, and Rutgers Football games and concerts. Throughout his life, he never missed an opportunity to help those around him, caring for his parents and in-laws, and volunteering with the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, St. Ann’s Elementary School, Muncy Valley Hospital, Divine Providence Hospital and Verona Music. His storytelling was unrivaled.
He is survived by the love of his life, Marilyn M. (nee Giuliano) Kessler; his loving children, Angela Wilson (Kevin) and Jeffrey Kessler (Sarah); and cherished grandchildren, Abigail Wilson, Kevin Wilson, Jr., and Elsie Kessler. He is also survived by his sister, Carol DeSilva, niece Emily, nephew Jacob (Hollie), and grand-niece Sofia.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Bob’s memory would be greatly appreciated.
