Memorial
Edward Kesser, 94, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at Meth-Wick Community. Memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 23, 2018 at Frist Presbyterian Church: 310 5th Street SE in Cedar Rapids, IA. Visitation will be one hour prior at the church. Private entombment at Cedar Memorial Park Mausoleum.
Edward is survived by his loving wife, Leslie of Cedar Rapids, IA; a son, Scott Kesser of Commerce City, CO; daughter, Cheryl (Robert) Kaiser of Minneapolis, MN; grandchildren, Christian May of Arlington, VA and Yvonne May of St. Louis, MO; a sister, Ella Friesen of Bemidji, MN; sister-in-law, Barbara Witt of Culpeper, VA; brother-in-law, James Marshall of Grand Rapids, MN and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Edward was born on April 22, 1924 in Cleveland, OH the son of Andrew and Wanda (Steinke) Kesser. In 1942 he graduated from high school in Cavalier, ND. Edward received a BA in History and Philosophy from Westmar College, LeMars, IA in 1951 and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Iowa in 1960. He worked for Link-Belt Speeder and then Kirkwood Community College for 24 years as a Professor of Mechanical Engineering Technology. Edward was united in marriage to Leslie (Witt) Kesser June 20, 1952 in St. Clair, MN.
Edward enjoyed gardening, baking, classical music, reading and wood working. His wood working included art carving, furniture and home renovations. Edward especially loved dipping hundreds of chocolates during the holiday season for family and friends. He began singing in choral groups at the age of 12 and continued singing in school, community and church choral groups for 75 years including First Presbyterian Church.
Edward enjoyed month long family camping trips and his lake property in northern Minnesota. He especially loved his sail boat and pontoon. Edward was nurturing, innovative, honorable, and loving. His family describe him as a “man for all seasons.”
Edward’s family would like to extend many thanks to all nurses, friends and family who gave him support and showed him kindness. Also a special thanks to the staff and residents at Meth-Wick Community.
Memorial donations may be directed to Meth-Wick Community: 1224 13th St NW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52405.