Kenneth Kessler
Of Washington, DC passed away at 78 on September 27, 2021, at home, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Martha; his daughters, Justine and Lauren; his grandson, Laszlo; son-in-law, Zander Mackie; brother, Howard; sister, Susan Beck; and many nieces and nephews. Ken grew up in Cheltenham, PA. After graduating from Temple Medical School, Ken moved to Washington, DC for his psychiatric internship at Washington Hospital Center, followed by a residency at the University of Pennsylvania. Ken's first company, a managed mental healthcare company called American Psych Management was one of the first in the field. It was taken public in 1989. After pioneering the field of managed mental health care, Ken went on to start other successful businesses in disease and addiction management. Ken's skills as a business leader carried over into all aspects of his life. His friends and family remember him for the sound guidance he was always able to offer, especially as regards all things medical. He started a Covid mailing list in the summer of 2019 that attracted many followers. Ken had a lifelong passion for architecture and interior design that found expression in several home renovations he oversaw closely. Most recently, he bought and renovated a beautiful home on the Annapolis waterfront. Always a Washingtonian, he followed politics and the issues of the day closely and could always be counted upon to regale his friends and dinner companions with his views on world events. More than anything, Ken loved to laugh. He had a terrific sense of humor and was known to leave tables of people in stitches. He was a true friend, devoted husband, loving brother and wonderful father. He was a rock for many, a light in uncertain times and will be missed. A memorial service and reception will follow at Joseph Gawler's Sons on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at 11 a.m. For more information, please visit www.josephgawlers.com

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Published by The Washington Post from Sep. 29 to Oct. 1, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for KENNETH KESSLER

18 Entries

Laura Tarantino

December 27, 2021

Martha, I just received your note about Ken. I am so sorry. He was such a great mentor and friend to me for many years. I love the picture with his grandchild. I always saw the tough minded professional, so it is very sweet to see the tender side of him. He was very proud of his family.

We didn´t talk often, but it was reassuring to know he was there if I needed him. He will be missed by The Tarantino´s.

We hope your family is doing well.

Take care,

Laura

Andrea Kessler

November 4, 2021

I am very sorry to recently learn of Ken's passing. I worked for him and APM back in the 80s and admired and respected him. We always got a kick out of having the same last name and it was how I came to work for the company. I read a Washington Post Business article about him and his pioneering efforts in managed mental health care and reached out to the head of marketing with my name. The receptionist didn't hesitate to put me through, thinking that I must have been related.

Ken, rest in peace....you and your work will always be remembered by many.

Carole and Stan Seligson

October 2, 2021

Martha and the Kessler family.... We were shocked to hear of Ken´s passing. We always enjoyed spending time together. A wonderful guy and will be missed by all. Look forward to seeing you when we return.
May he rest in
peace!

Carter, Maisie and Lolly

Sent Flowers

Carter, Maisie, and Lolly

Sent Flowers

Alex Pugh

October 1, 2021

My condolences to the entire Kessler family. I remember having dinner with Ken and Martha and my parents in San Francisco when they first met my wife, Ingrid. It was a wonderful night. So sorry for your loss.

One Watermark Place

Sent Flowers

Nancy Brinker and Mike Zinner

Sent Flowers

Joseph Pritchard

October 1, 2021

Martha
May Ken's memory be eternal.
Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Ken was a friend and mentor and he allowed me to take the reins running his last company. He helped so many suffering from addiction.
his legacy will be shown through all the lives he touched.
Joe Pritchard

Joe Pritchard

October 1, 2021

Martha
May Ken's memory be eternal. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Ken was a true leader in the addictions treatment field. He was a personal mentor to me and allowed me to take the reins to run his last company. I will always be eternally grateful.
Joe

Joe Pritchard

Sent Flowers

Beth Bloomfield

September 30, 2021

Martha, I just learned of Ken's death from Allison's SISters list, and want to express my condolences to you. He sounds like such a wonderful man, you must have so many sweet and happy memories of him. I hope those will sustain you through your sadness and grief.

With deepest sympathy,
Beth

Rena Epstein

September 30, 2021

I´m so sorry for your loss, Martha, and that of the rest of the family. May his memory be a blessing.

Janice Williams Robinson

September 30, 2021

To Martha and the Family. I am so sorry to hear of your loss of your dear husband, Martha. My prayer is for peace and comfort as you face the difficult days ahead without him.
Fondly,
Janice Williams (as you would know me)

Janice & Michael Mueller

September 29, 2021

Deepest Condolences from all of us & May his memory be a blessing!

David Jenkins

September 29, 2021

My sincere condolences,I am very sorry for your loss.

Frank Titus

September 29, 2021

RIP Ken

September 28, 2021

To the family,

I would like to extend my condolences to you. Losing a loved one in death breaks our heart. Please know that you can find comfort and strength in God. Isa. 41:10 says he will hold on to you with his right hand of righteousness. Cherish the loving memories.

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