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Joseph KESSLER Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Buffalo News.
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Memories and Condolences
for Joseph KESSLER
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Leslie Krehnbrink
August 6, 2025
What a lovely human being. My son Lew always admired Joe's solid character. God bless all of the Kessler's on this anniversary.
Carolyn Conrad ( Semancik )
August 5, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are still with all of you on the anniversary of Joe´s passing .
Carolyn
Carolyn Conrad ( Semancik )
August 5, 2023
Kessler family ,
Still remembering such a special person , Joe . You are all in my thoughts and prayers on this , the 10th anniversary of Joe’s passing (wow) . Love to you All .
Carolyn
Leslie, Bob, Lew & Grift Krehnbrink
August 5, 2022
Dear Kessler family, we shall always remember Joe and his enthusiasm for life and serving others. He was a bright light to his peers at St. X, led by his beautiful example, and sincere interest in others. God bless you all, hope that you are healthy and thriving. No doubt, Joe's light surrounds you every day and you see him in special moments and the stories you continue to share and find joy in...
Carolyn
August 5, 2021
Just sending a note to let you know I am remembering all of you.
With Love,
Carolyn ( Semancik ) Conrad
Leslie Krehnbrink
August 5, 2021
I will always remember Joe's smiling face and kindness. He was a good friend to my son Lew Krehnbrink. A role model to so many, and obviously an amazing brother and son, Joe's legacy lives on. God bless the Kessler family. May Joe's light live on inside each of you and your family conversations be filled with happy stories of his life and the impact he had on others - and his most joyfuy moments with each of you.
Andrew Urig
December 4, 2015
Hell of a guy. Just heard about this. Genuinely nice guy all four years. Sad to hear. Rest easy man.
Leslie Krehnbrink
October 17, 2013
Dear Kessler Family,
God bless each of you as you grieve Joe's passing. Joe's warm spirit.and big smile graced the halls of St.X and the Bomber lacrosse field. He q as indeed a man for others, a strong ezample to his.peers and the community. May you find comfort in warm memories of Joe knowing he touched the lives of many and did make a difference in the world.
Joe Platt
August 24, 2013
I knew Joe from XU. We had a few classes together. I never even knew he struggled with epilepsy until he told me he crashed his car while having a seizure--even then he was so positive, I thought he was joking! I found out he passed away from Facebook. I think the picture on his prayer card would be the one he would have picked himself. Sorry for your loss and best of luck to your family.
August 23, 2013
Dear Kessler Family,
I was so saddened today when I heard this terrible news. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time and may God be with you.
Luke Frederick '05
August 22, 2013
Dear Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I pray that the God of comfort sustains you until the time He promises to swallow up death forever.
Lisa Lakeman
August 21, 2013
Joe and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that God will give you comfort.
Sandy Stabler
August 20, 2013
Kathy and family, I was deeply saddened when I learned of your loss of your son today. Although he and I never met, I know that any child of yours would be an exceptional person to know, the way it is knowing you. I see your smile on his face. May you find a bit of comfort in the days ahead. I will miss you at school. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
August 16, 2013
Kathy,Joe,Jennifer,Sarah,and Michael,
Jon and I send our love and prayers to you during this difficult time for your family. Remembering Joe and the boys adventures in school bring a smile to my face! I hope today was a wonderful celebration of his life and that it can begin your healing process...Fondly, Karen and Jon VanZile
Bob Pritts
August 15, 2013
Our sincerest sympathies on the loss of your son, may you find peace and solace in being surrounded by family and friends during this difficult time.
Bob and Paula Pritts
Cathy Rosenbaum & Family
August 15, 2013
Kathy & Joe - We're so sorry to learn of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you & your family in this difficult time.
Laurie McGrath
August 15, 2013
Dear Kathy, Joe and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Joe. When I remember him I see his beautiful smile snd confident manner. It was a pleasure watching him (and your whole family) grow up.
I wish words really could console. You have a wonderful angel in Heaven. My prayers are with all of you. God Bless. Laurie
June 4th 2013 (Joe, Brennan, Abra)
Joseph Lima
August 15, 2013
Joseph Lima
August 15, 2013
Keep Bright C. Joe!!!
June 4th 2013 (left to right) Jos, Brennan, Abra - all three being some of the best friends a guy can have on his birthday!! You will be missed Joe!!!
Joseph Lima
August 15, 2013
Dear Joe, Kathy & Family:
We are all so very sad for your loss of your wonderful bright shining son. In his stay here (in Toronto) he reached out and touched everyone he met, his unprecedented joy and understanding made him unforgettable person and a delight to be around. He was a light when many where dark. His memory will stay with us until our last and will forever bring a huge grin to our faces.
Keep strong in this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sincerely,
Joseph Lima
Patrick Uihlein and mother Patricia Uihlein
Patrick Uihlein
August 15, 2013
Dear Kessler family:
I am deeply distressed to hear of Joe's passing. I was taken aback by it and am still struggling with the sadness of such a terrible loss. Joe was one of my best friends at Cardinal Pacelli. I remember in second grade when I first met him, I knew we were destined to be friends. I remember going to the pool with Joe and I had so much fun. I will cherish the memories of playing basketball on the A-team with Joe for the Cardinal Pacelli Panthers. I am proud and honored to have shared minutes with him on that old gym floor. We laughed and cried together, he was a good man, a kind soul, and he will never be forgotten. You have my deepest sympathy in this difficult time. "I pray our heavenly father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement and leave you only the cherished memories of loved and lost." -Abraham Lincoln. I was proud to know Joe and I'll never be the same because we were friends. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Yours most sincerely and Respectfully,
Patrick C. Uihlein
Cardinal Pacelli
Class of 2001
Pete & Therese Stea
August 15, 2013
Joe, Kathy and family,
we are very saddened by your loss. Joe jr. was a special person and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Joe with Teammates after UA win
Pat C
August 15, 2013
Lisa Kaminski
August 14, 2013
Kesslers -
No words can help - know that all of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Lisa and Rick Kaminski
Denise Pieper
August 14, 2013
Dear Joe, Kathy & Family:
We were very sad to hear about the loss of your son & brother, Joe. We remember him well from Cardinal Pacelli. Although it's been many years in between, we fondly remember all of you. Please know that Joe touched our lives, even though very briefly. Our prayers are with you at this very sad time.
Respectfully,
Jeff, Denise, John, Joe & Jake Pieper
August 14, 2013
Joe and Kathy, I am so sorry to hear about your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We will not be at the funeral because we are in the Ukraine, but we will be thinking of you.
Renee Filip
August 13, 2013
Joe,
I am so sorry for the loss of your son. May you and your family find peace in the beautiful memories you have shared together. My Deepest Sympathy, Renee Filip
Timmy Troha
August 13, 2013
Joe, it is an honor to of known you and to call you a brother. It was wonderful to see you at jareds 5k this year. I was so proud to see how much you had grown since I last saw you. I was impressed with your stories of travel. I will always remember you. May your spirit be with us always. Always everywhere
judy steele
August 13, 2013
Joe,
My heart is breaking for you and your wife. I know your pain as I too lost my son 2 years ago. There are no words to heal the hole in your heart. Just know I am praying for strength for you as you proceed through this journey. I am willing to talk to you or your wife if you need to talk to someone who really does understand.
Judy Steele
513-910-3985
[email protected]
Sylwia Psiuk
August 13, 2013
I am shocked...I can't believe...it should not happen...
Joe, our SA GUY your were...you ARE inspiration to lots of us.
Your attitude, your optimism, your smile, your laugh and everything else which other people said in here already was unbelievable.
You gave a piece of your heart to everyone you met and you did not want anything back.
You liked everyone for what they are and did not care what others say, that was beautiful about YOU.
I am honored I could know you Joe even if that was just for 8 months of your life, you will be remembered for rest of my life.
Sidonie Oakland
August 13, 2013
Dear Joe and family - I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Allegra and Jason Jaros
August 13, 2013
Joe, Kathy, Jennifer, Sara and Michael - you are in our thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort, in the deep loss of your son and brother.
Beth Tindall
August 13, 2013
He touched the hearts of so many... I'm sorry for your loss.
August 13, 2013
I was totally shocked to hear of the tragic death of your son. I wish I could give you a hug. I am praying for you all !
Jim Collins
Alyssa Jacobs
August 13, 2013
To the Kessler family,
I went to grade school at CPS with Joe, and have only positive memories of him. I have not seen him since, but will always remember him for his charismatic nature, carefree spirit, and friendliness. I am praying for your family, as you have lost such a great soul too soon. My heart and deepest sympathy goes out to your family.
Lori Stuckey
August 13, 2013
Dear Joe, Kathy, Jen, Sarah and Michael,
We are so saddened by the loss of your precious son and brother. Joe was the first Kessler we met when you moved to Cloveridge Ct. He was just delightful - kind, warm, big smile, smart and funloving. He will be missed by so many and he made hugh impact in his short time here on earth. Praying for peace and comfort for all of you. With much love,
Lori, Doug, Sara, Matt and Leah Stuckey
Joe K and Jeff T
Jeff Tindall
August 13, 2013
John Klein
August 13, 2013
To the Kessler Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Daniela De Luca
August 13, 2013
My poem for you Joe...
" In a blink of an eye
We now have to say goodbye
You wouldn't want us to cry
It will be difficult, can't lie
But have no fear Joe
Because you must know
We will keep you near
By sitting together and drinking beer
We will not be sad and remember the colourful personality you had
You were such a wonderful dude
Always managed to change a persons mood
Whether we were happy, sad or committed a sin
We would end up with a big grin!
Joe Joe where did you go!
From the best valedictorian to now a great historian. "
...
Joe was and still is One of a Kind, special, wonderful, person and soul. My sisters just met him once on our graduation day and they loved him already because they felt his free spirit. I will always cherish his laugh, smile and his 'Right on' saying. Joe you are truly, deeply missed! I never went a day without hearing your laugh or voice, I knew everything was right on!
Love you always Joe!
Dianne Brown
August 13, 2013
Dear Kessler Family,
There are no words to ease your deep sorrow with the loss of your beloved Joe. We having been praying for your family ever since we hear the news.
Love,
Dianne, Bob, and Alex Brown
August 13, 2013
Joe,
There are no words to make you and your family feel better. Just wanted to let you know I feel your sorrow.
Nordelle Wainz
Trihealth
Carolyn Semancik
August 13, 2013
Kathy, Joe, Jennifer, Michael & Sarah,
Oh My Goodness.... I was in shock when I read that Joe had passed away. The memories of him and Benjamin in grade school at CPS and just visiting at each others house will be cherished forever. Joe was such at sweet kid. I didn't get to witness him as a young man but I'm sure he was just as sweet. Nothing is harder than losing a child. My heart goes out to your entire family. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. Know that you have a special Angel watching over you now and forever. He will be with you always. I know, I have one too.
I'm here if you need me to listen.
Sincerely, Carolyn
August 12, 2013
Joe, Kathy, Jen, Michael and Sarah,
You are in our thoughts and prayers and Joe will forever be in your hearts. You raised a beautiful son; so thoughtful, so loving and so kind to everyone around him. We remember his impeccable manners and his beaming smile would light up any room. He lived life to the fullest and now he will be your angel watching over all of you. God Bless and know that love surrounds your family.
Julie, Matt, John, Molly and Natalie Starr
Linda Martin
August 12, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. "Little" Joe was sweet and kind and a dear friend. We all adored him back in the Cloveridge days. We are so sorry for your loss.
Kent, Linda, Ryan and Eric Martin
Denise Fenton
August 12, 2013
I do not know your family, but we feel your pain. I read Josephs obituary in the Buffalo News and thought I was reading my sons, so much in common. We also lost our son of 26 on August 2nd to complications from epilepsy. He also was born in 1987 and started having seiures when he was a senior in high school. Like your son, our son was bright, well loved and had many friends and did not let epilepsy come in the way of living a full, fun life. We do not understand why our son was taken from us so early and struggle each day to have the strength to move on, as I am sure you are also. It brought a warm feeling in my heart to think perhaps our sons went to heaven at the same time to comfort each other, as both have gone through a lot in their short lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Lisabeth Kaeser
August 12, 2013
Kathy and family,
I am so sorry that you have lost your precious son. Know that you and your entire family will be in my prayers. God Bless you and somehow comfort you all.
Liz Kaeser
Kian Marzban
August 12, 2013
You were the only classmate who would singing and laughing with me whenever I started...Rest in peace dear classmate.
Cori Gambini
August 12, 2013
To the Kessler Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.There are no words that I can say to you to make this less painful. I will just keep you in my daily prayers. God bless your family and may Joseph be your angel to stay close to all of you and watch over you.
Florent Villeneuve
August 12, 2013
After reading the many entries, I feel I only echo the sentiments of the many people who have written here. I can honestly say there isn't a person at Kikkawa College that didn't feel your optimism. Joe we will all miss your laugh, your unfaltering positive outlook and insight on being a good human being. On behalf of Kikkawa College, teachers, staff, students and clinic clients, our thoughts are with you and your family.
August 12, 2013
Dear Joe, Kathy, Jen, Michael, and Sarah,
Joe was the first Kessler we met when you moved next to us on Cloveridge Ct. He was such a delightful little boy, with a bright smile, twinkle in his eye, kind, fun loving and cute as could be!
And he grew up to be a wonderful young man. He will always be in your hearts. He made a big impact in such a short time here on earth. We are so sorry for your heartbreaking loss. You all are in our prayers. God Bless and with love,
Lori, Doug, Sara, Matt and Leah Stuckey
August 12, 2013
The Crane family sends their love and deep regrets! What a wonderful man Joe was and we are grateful he was a part of our lives. Much love, Karen, Frank, Erin, FJ, Sean, Colin and Casey
Robert Colangelo
August 12, 2013
Its a sad day when a guy like Joe leaves us all. You will be missed greatly.
Northstar Pilates
August 12, 2013
Joe brought his smile and light heart into our Pilates studio and made it more fun, always. Our deepest condolences to your family. With much love from everyone at Northstar.
John Tomaszewski
August 12, 2013
Joe
You and your family are in our prayers as you carry this heavy weight. With our heartfelt condolences.
August 12, 2013
Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Kessler family. I did not know him, but I know his brother, and if Joe had any part in shaping him into the amazing person he is today, than he must have been an outstanding human being. God bless
Pascal Papathanasakis
August 12, 2013
During his 2 years at Kikkawa College Joe touch so many lives in such a profound way. He truly was a beautiful person. Each time I met with Joe I felt better somehow. His laugh, his smile, his personality made people feel good about themselves. As the Student Association President he always ensured to solve problems fairly for everyone involved and he quickly gained the respect from all students, staff and friends at the College. He was everybody's friend.
Kikkawa College staff are shocked and deeply saddened. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. I hope that his family finds peace in knowing how well loved Joe was and what an outstanding impact he made on everyone whose lives he touched.
Your laughter is still here Joe, in the school hallways, classroom and cafeteria and ….just outside my office window.
Pascal Papathanasakis
Anastasia
August 12, 2013
SA Guy Joe
...what can I say everyone already knows what a life force you are!
You brought and gave a kindness to everyone you met and the impressions you left behind are as big as your personality!
Sadness holds my heart today, after which happiness will take its place because I had the pleasure to know you!
...because we ALL had the pleasure of you in our lives.
Frances Byers
August 12, 2013
It is with a heavy heart I write this note…..Joe will be sadly missed…his smile his laugh. A wonderful young man, my prayers and thoughts are with the family and friends.
Laura Keitel
August 12, 2013
Our hearts go out to all of you during this most difficult time. May God bless you all and mostly Joe. Please know our prayers and thoughts are with all of you. Fondly, The Keitel Family - Tom, Laura, Katie, Trey and Will
Donna Gammarato
August 12, 2013
Dear Joe and Family,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your special son, Joseph. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
With warm regards,
Donna Gammarato
caroline joyal
August 12, 2013
Joe, sweet, light, caring, gentle soul...good job! You have completed your mission in this earth in this body. And you made it so young! What a genius you are! I know you are out there somewhere sending your non-judgmental love for the emancipation of all beings. That's how great and generous you are. Merci brother. Amour.
August 12, 2013
Kathy, Joe, Jennifer, Michael, and Sarah - We are so sorry to hear of this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. Fondly, Gigi, Steve, Julie, Katie, Michael, Marianne, John, and Megan Robison
Pat Cole
August 12, 2013
thank you for sharing a short time of your life working with us @Lowes,West Amherst,New York!Your infectious grin and laugh and exuberant presence brightened any moment of any day when you walked in that door to work! My prayers to family and ALL who lives he touched.
Katie Wolk
August 11, 2013
Joe's warm and caring spirit was felt by all who was lucky enough to meet him. He brightened the day with his humor and laughter. I miss my dear friend and my heart goes out to his family.
Melissa Wooldridge
August 11, 2013
Words cannot express my sadness that Joe is no longer with us. He was such a positive and happy person; always a joy to be around. He will be greatly missed and I will always remember to stay positive and remain kind in his honour. Rest in peace my friend.
August 11, 2013
Our hearts are breaking for you Kesslers. We send you much love and prayers from Tim, Mary, Caitlin and Kerry Ragland
Graduation Day - July 3, 2013
Jerry Angeles
August 11, 2013
Suzanne Nall
August 11, 2013
I am so very sad to hear the news about my awesome, beautiful cousin. Kathy, Joe, Jennifer, Sarah, and Michael, my thoughts are with you all.
Much love, your cousins, Suzanne, Clarisse, and Mariel Nall
ellen freese
August 11, 2013
I was so sad to hear about joe.He always helped Matthew giving him a ride to lacrosse. My heart goes out to your family. Ellen freese
Eileen Campbell
August 11, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Joe's death. He will remain in my mind forever a young boy running around the sports fields of Cincinnati...
Annette (Feldman) Johnson
August 11, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers and deepest sympathies are with your family at this difficult time.
August 11, 2013
I did not know Joseph, but I extend my deepest condolences to his family and just wanted to say I was moved by this beautifully written obituary.
Tracy
August 11, 2013
He had a warmth he always shared with everyone around him. May this candle serve as a reminder, however dim in the shadow of this loss, as a light for his journey.
Tracy
August 11, 2013
My time with Joe was so brief. Too brief it seems. He was my friend at Lowes and I saw in him, a younger version of myself. I used to tell him that all the time. What a great smile! He was kind, compassionate, eager to learn, and ready to be a friend to everyone. My heart is aching for this loss to the larger world he would have made better. Rest in the most gracious peace...
Kristen Lasley
August 11, 2013
What a blessing it is to call you "family", Joe. I love you, cousin, and miss you terribly. There are no words to express the grief I am feeling but I will take comfort in knowing that you will be watching over us now. With loving memories from all of the Lasley's, Kristen, Patrick, Tessa Jo, and Reagan.
Laurel Fowlie
August 11, 2013
Joe, you're a beautiful soul.
I hope you know how important you were to the entire school at Kikkawa during your time there.
A friend to everyone, the frequent voice of reason, the soother of hurt feelings.
We had some special moments. Nothing compared to what you shared with your friends and classmates who love you so much.
Your beautiful self, your questionable facial hair, your pink hairband and your wonderful, wonderful laugh will be thought of often and missed.
August 11, 2013
Joe was an amazing man filled with such giving inspiration and Love for all of us at lowes and all he encountered along his paths !!!!We will miss him GREATLY.. May God Bless You in his family and also Lowes family ... We Loved Joe Dearly........ Lowes Family 1883
jackie pyper
August 11, 2013
Joe was always the one laughing in the halls of school, you couldn't help but wanna be his friend. And when you got to know him more, you realized he was a really genuine person to. I'm in shock. I send all my love and support to joes family. Joe truly made a bent in this world, I will never forget knowing him for the little time I did.
August 11, 2013
Thank you for sharing Joe's story - what a wonderful and accomplished young man. Peace and love - a fellow friend with epilepsy
Mary Zarowskyj
August 11, 2013
Dear Kessler family,
We were very blessed to know Joseph. The joy he brought into our home will never be forgotten. We hear his laughter in every room, and the deck where they all hung out. May you all eventually find peace and comfort.
From his Toronto family, Mary, Teresa and Mark.
July 3, 2013 - graduation day
Mary Zarowskyj
August 11, 2013
They did it!
August 11, 2013
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