Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Sharon Kessler Obituary
Age 57, of Canton, went home to be with the Lord after a courageous battle with cancer, on Wednesday at Aultman Hospital. She was born in Canton, a daughter of Stanley and Elizabeth Popa Fasnacht, of St. Petersburg, Fla., and had been a life resident. Sharon was a 1970 graduate of Perry High School, and a 1974 graduate of Kent State University, with a Bachelor of Science in Education, and where she was a four-year gymnast, and went to the NCAA National Championships. She also received her Masters Degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Ashland University. Sharon was a Phys. Ed and Science teacher at Lakewood High School, Sandy Valley High School, and Plain Local Schools, at Pleasant View, Middlebranch, and Glenoak High School. During the last several years, Sharon became an avid and accomplished golfer. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. She loved volunteering her time at Trinity Lutheran Soup Kitchen. She also continuously shared her strength with other cancer survivors as she endured her own battle with cancer.
Surviving besides her parents is her husband, Craig P. Kessler, with whom she celebrated their 36th Wedding Anniversary on June 9; two daughters and a son-in-law, Tiffany Kessler and her fiancé, Josh Grimsley, of Canton, and Trisha and Richard Constantine, of Greenville, S.C.; one brother, Brian Fasnacht, of Palm Harbor, Fla.; her mother-in-law, Louise Kessler, of North Canton; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, David and Sue Kessler, of Columbus, and Brad and Margot Kessler, of North Canton; nieces Hillary, Allison, Amanda, and Sarah, and nephew, Amery; also her beloved dog, Shelby, and cat, Lucky.
A PRIVATE SERVICE for her family will be held on Saturday at Sharon's church with Pastor Darla Ann Kratzer officiating. Interment in North Lawn Cemetery. Friends may call Friday 5-8 p.m. at the Formet-Clevenger & Gordon Funeral Home. The family wishes to express their appreciation and special thank you to Pastor Darla Ann Kratzer, Dr. Barbara Volk, Dr. Michael Hopkins, Dr. Steven Grossman, Dr. Dina Rooney of Tri-County Oncology, Aultman Palliative Care Unit Nurses, Aultman Memorial Four North Nurses, and Aultman 6th Floor Nurses. They also would like to thank their family and friends for their love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sharon's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Soup Kitchen of Trinity Lutheran Church, 415 W. Tusc. St., Canton, OH 44702.
Formet-Clevenger & Gordon
(330) 456-4766
www.gordonfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sharon Kessler
Carol
November 20, 2009
Craig, Tiffany, Trisha and the entire family,
I just learned of Sharon's passing. I am lost for words but did want to expess my most sincere condolences. I have always kept a special place in my heart for her and the rest of you. Please know that you are all in my heart, thoughts and prayers.
Linda DeFine
November 15, 2009
Mr. Kessler and family,
I would like to express my condolences for the loss of Sharon. I graduated with her in 1970. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Yamile Spence
November 7, 2009
Dear Kessler Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know that she was an exceptional lady who gave so much and was fortunate to have a such a beautiful and loving family.
October 27, 2009
Craig, I am so sorry to hear of Sharon's passing. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
I'll keep you in my prayers,
Chris Anthony
Tammy Kissenberger
October 27, 2009
To the Kessler family,
I'm so sorry to hear about Sharon's death-my heart and prays go to you and your family. I know what you are going through and again my prays at with you.
Love,
Tammy Kissenberger
Mike Harrer
October 27, 2009
I am so sorry to hear about the lose of your wife Mr. Kessler! I am thinking about you and have you and your family in my prayers!
Janet and Gary Smith
October 26, 2009
Gary and I were so sorry to hear that Sharon had lost her courageous battle. I always looked forward to seeing her at Dr. Rooney's office as we shared "chemo time." Up until that last day we spoke, Sharon always had that lovely smile and courageous attitude. Unfortunately, we were on our way to Seattle when we learned of her death and could not return to town in time to bring our condolences to the family during the visiting hours. Please know that we are heartsick at your loss . . . at all of our loss. Love to the family, Jan and Gary Smith
Caroline Tuss
October 26, 2009
I did not personally know Mrs Kessler, but spent a lot of time with Tiffany Kessler at Kilmer Middle School in Vienna, Virginia. Tiffany so fondly spoke of her mother, and exemplifies such an amazing personality that is obviously passed down from her family. Your family is in my thoughts as you mourn during this difficult time, knowing Sharon is in a place we all hope to be someday, and what we all prepare for daily. She is in no pain, has no suffering, and is all around her family at all times. Here is a wonderful poem I would like to share:
Death is nothing at all. I have only slipped away into the next room.
I am I, and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other, we still are.
Call me by old familiar names.
Speak to me in the easy way which you always used to.
Put no difference in your tone. Wear no air of solemnity or sorrow.
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play. Smile. Think of me. Pray for me.
Let my name be the same as it always was; let it be spoken without effort…
without the trace of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was; there is unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of your mind because I am out of your sight?
I am waiting for you somewhere very near, just around the corner.
All is well. Nothing is past. Nothing is lost.
One brief moment and all will be as it was before – only better.
Sincerely,
Caroline Baker Tuss
October 25, 2009
Sharon's strength, courage, and love will be with all you and many others forever. She taught everyone a lesson to never give up and to live each day to the fullest.
Craig, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls.
Steve Milano
October 25, 2009
Craig, Trish, and Tiffany, I'm terribly sorry for your loss. I'm thinking about you, and may God Bless you all and bring peace to your hearts.
Ben McDaniels
Mike Humbert
October 25, 2009
To the Kessler Family,
Was saddened to hear of Sharon's passing. You have my deepest sympathy.
October 24, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Two beautiful girls have beautiful memories of your beautiful mother to comfort you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless
Rhoda and Pete Christ
Sue Miller
October 24, 2009
I had the privilege of knowing Sharon
as a teacher. She was so courageous
during her battle and always had a smile on her face and a positive attitude. She will be missed. My sincere sympathy to her family.
Mark Black
October 24, 2009
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Keven Bourke
October 24, 2009
To The Family,
I was very sorry to read about your loss. I hope you can find comfort in the words found at Isa. 33:24 which say that soon no one will say 'I am sick.' You have my deepest sympathies.
The Bourke Family
Harry Manos
October 23, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Tim and Carol Downerd
October 23, 2009
Tim and I graduated with Sharon from Perry and our kids were at OU with at least one of the girls. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sharon is now at peace and free of pain. Cherish all the wonderful memories you have of Sharon and we hope you find comfort from friends and family. Our deepest sympathy.
Maureen Schmucker
October 23, 2009
You are in my thoughts and prayers as I am experiencing both relief and sadness in Sharon's passing. I am thankful that she is finally at peace but now I grieve for those left behind. I have many happy memories of Sharon to treasure.
Andrea Manos
October 23, 2009
Your family is in my thoughts, and prayers.
Mrs. Kessler was one of those teachers that you never forget. I remember taking the gold fish from our 9th grade class at the career center to my dorm room at Kent State !
Thank you for the wonderful memories.
Andrea Manos (Former Student)
John Virdo
October 23, 2009
Craig and family,
It is regretable that the need has arisen to express my feelings to all of you now. Be assured of me sincere feelings of loss for all of you. Death is truly an enemy that takes loved ones from us. There is never a time we want to let go. Still, I am sure you are finding some comfort in knowing that Sharon no longer has to suffer as she has.
Francine Crist
October 23, 2009
Dear Craig and Girls, I am so sorry for your loss. Sharon was a tower of strength and grace as she fought so courageously to overcome her cancer. I pray that she is in peace and will always be able to watch over you and send her love. Her family was so important to her! Her legacy will live on. Fran Crist
Ed March
October 23, 2009
Craig,
Sue and I are deeply saddened by your loss. Sharon was a great teacher and a better person and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Matt Gagnon
October 23, 2009
I was grateful to have known Mrs. Kessler as her student and as a friend. Her strength, courage and hope was such a tremendous inspiration to everyone. Heaven gained a true angel! My thoughts and prayers are with you all. The love that your family has for one another is a testament to her.
Wendy Royer
October 23, 2009
What a wonderful person who left an impact on many students and colleagues! As the struggle ends for Sharon, we can only keep her husband and daughters in our thoughts and prayers to help them get through a very tough time.
Bryan Krosse
October 23, 2009
I had the honor of teaching with Sharon during her last years of teaching. I will truly miss her and my prayers are with her family.
October 23, 2009
Mrs. Kessler touched the lives of many and will be truly missed. May she rest in peace and her spirit be carried on forever.
With deepest sympathy,
Cassie (Labriola) Whitman
October 23, 2009
Craig,
I was so sorry to her about Sharon. Please accept my condolences.
She fought long and hard. May she rest in peace. Peace be with you.
Ralph Ickes
Lana Perkins
October 22, 2009
Craig, Tiffany, and Trisha, I'm so sorry for your loss. Sharon was a wonderful teacher and friend. I first met Sharon when she came to Glenoak East for the redesign. As the Library Media Specialist I saw first hand what she gave to her students and co-workers. Her strength and positive attitude in her courageous battle was an inspiration to so many others and so typical of her spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. She will be truly missed.
October 22, 2009
Craig, Tiff, and Tricia:
My heart breaks for you......when I think of Sharon my heart smiles. She was so many things to so many people. Her love for her family was so strong and she was never afraid to let it be known. She was such a blessing here on earth and now her blessings will be in Heaven. You are in our prayers.
Love, Tom & Paula McGee
Jill Henderzahs-Mason
October 22, 2009
my deepest sympathies to your family. I enjoyed having had Mrs. Kessler as a teacher. She definitely helped to positively impact my life and many others. May Peace be with you.
October 22, 2009
To the Kessler Family:
With deepest sympathy to you and your family on the loss of your loved one. Please accept our condolences and know our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. (Keep this verse in your minds)
God takes our loved one's from our homes,
but never from our hearts. Please find comfort in knowing that Sharon loved each and every one of you as you loved her too.
With Love, Stephanie Pipero-Henderson & Kevin Henderson
October 22, 2009
All our love to my "L'il Sis's" family: Craig, Tiffany, and Trisha. We will miss those belly aching laughs we had together and the great times we shared.
Sharon, your precious memories will be cherished forever.
Love,
Barb, Patrick, Erin,and Sean O'Reilly
megan nelson
October 22, 2009
Mr. Kessler and girls,
I am truly sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. May the Lord bless you and ease your pain.
Sincerely, Megan Nelson
McK 1998
Dan Santarelli
October 22, 2009
To Craig and family,
I am very sorry for your loss, I met your family at the Four Winds restaurant while I was working as a Bartender, so we spent alot of Friday and Saturday's together.My thoughts and pryers are with all of you.
Jamie Dannemiller
October 22, 2009
I only knew Sharon for a few weeks but her spirit touched me forever. Sharon was a member of my Living Strong Class that I teach at the YMCA. My prayers will be with her family as they grieve the loss of such a wonderful woman.
October 22, 2009
THE LEAVELL FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY AND CONDOLENCES FOR YOUR LOSS.
Terri Cursio
October 22, 2009
Dear Craig, Tiffany and
Trisha,
My heart goes out to you all with the lose of a woman that I admired so deeply. She was brave beyond words, and fought so hard to stay with you. God had a plan for her. I know he has blessed all of you for the years you had with her, and he blessed her for the years she had with you. I told her many times she was my hero!! I pray for you to all have strength and peace in this difficult time.
Anita, Jason, & Matthew DiGiacomo
October 22, 2009
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Doug Arick
October 22, 2009
Dear Craig, i`m very sorry for your family`s loss. Best wishes and God Bless.
John Davies
October 22, 2009
It is with my deepest regards that I send you my condolences at this time. I knew Sharon when I was at Plain. You and yours are in my prayers
Jillian Coleman Orton
October 22, 2009
Mr. Kessler, Tiffany and Trish - I am very sorry for your loss. Your mother was a great cheerleader for the Ohio swimmers, I will never forget her great spirit.
Katy Bishop
October 22, 2009
My heart goes out to Craig, Tiffany, Tricia, Shirley, those who knew Sharon best and are facing today with unfathomable grief.
This loss is enormous and unfair. Sharon was a wonderful, gracious person who improved the lives of so many. I will always be grateful for her warmth in inviting me into the family as Tori's partner, and will remember her as a kind, funny, generous person.
Many blessings to the family Sharon has left behind. May you be well, may you know peace.
Rick Christ
October 22, 2009
Craig, I was sorry to read of the loss of your wife. My prayers go out to you and your family. An old friend.
October 22, 2009
Craig & Family
Our Deepest Sympathy to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dan & Maryann Sturia and Sons
John & Becky Corsi & Children
Tori McReynolds
October 22, 2009
Hey Family, just wanted you to know that I am mourning here in Maryland, too. Sharon was so thoughtful, and did such a good job of keeping us all connected. So let's honor her memory by staying in touch. Love, Tori
Stephanie, Louie & Olivia DeSarro
October 22, 2009
Dear Craig, Tif, Trisha and the Kessler Family...
Words cannot express how much Sharon meant to me. She was such an inspiration in so many ways. She was so intimidating but so gentle. I first met her at Middlebranch. She was my 8th grade teacher. Boy, I was afraid of her. Even though she was tough and demanded respect, which she deserved, she had a special way about her. We had a special relationship from the get go. Then I met Sarah and got to know the whole family on a personal level. We have shared many good memories. Your family is so generous, caring and very thoughtful.
You should be so proud of the wonderful accomplishments that Sharon got to be a part of. She loved her family and friends more than we will ever know. I hope that you find peace and comfort knowing that she will always be soaring with the angels above looking down on you and protecting you. No need for sadness she is in a safe, peaceful and wonderful place.
I love you guys so much and if there is anything that I can do... I will. P.S. I will be dedicating This years Relay for Life in memory of Sharon!
Joanie Christoff
October 22, 2009
Craig, Tiffany, and Trisha, Sharon was one of the most beautiful, classiest ladies that I have ever met in my life. Fortunately, I was placed on the 9th grade integrated team with her and Shawn Jackson. She was a wonderful teacher and colleague. Her wisdom and ability to instill values in our students was unsurpassed. I was truly blessed to be on that team. Her strength in her courageous battle with her illness was unbelievable. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Joanie Bixler Christoff
October 22, 2009
To the Kessler Family: Our thoughts
and prayers are with all of you at this
difficult time. We will remember
Sharon fondly. Mike and Denise Moxie
and Family.
Stacie (Horner)-McClain
October 22, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Stacie (Horner)-McClain
October 22, 2009
To the Kessler Family:
I don't know Mrs. Kessler but I had her husband Mr. Kessler from McK. anyways she was an angel here and now she's an angel in heaven. I am pretty sure she will always remain in all of our hearts. I wish I could have met her but it seems like I have.. God Bless you all and my heaven smile upon all of you.
Gary & Carie Greene & Family
October 22, 2009
Craig, Louise, Tiffany, Tricia & Family
We are so sorry for your heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts, and prayers are with you at this time. We trust that God will fill Sharon with His love and peace, and that she will be blessed with eternal life. We pray that He will comfort you.
With sincere love and hugs to you,
October 22, 2009
Mr. Kessler, Tiffany, and Trisha,
I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jessica Heropulos
Laura
October 22, 2009
Craig, What a beautiful lady. The love between the two of you was clearly seen. I am sorry for your loss.
Tiffany and Trisha, Your mom lived a colorful, active, and fun loving life. I will continue to remember the good times as I tend to my garden in her honor. She has planted so many wonderful qualities in the two of you, and will continue to live through your gracious smiles and actions.
Laura Maczko
October 22, 2009
One of the most courageous people I know. She was full of spirit and wisdom. We should all take a bit of Sharon with us and live by her principles and standards daily. To a great educator and an even better person who loved life. May you finally rest in peace.
Marshaa Lucas
October 22, 2009
Mr. Kessler, Tiffany and Trisha,
My prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. Mr. Kessler was my principal at Mck, and I met Mrs. Kessler whom lived next door to my god-parent and I got to know her a few years back. God never puts more on us than we can bear. Now the three of you have a WONDERFUL ANGEL watching over you EVERYDAY from heaven.
October 22, 2009
I knew Sharon from yoga at Mercy hospital & other support group related events. She was a strong courageous woman & I am going to miss her very much. :-( She always gave me encouragement for illness. My prayers & thoughts are with her family. Love, Nicole (Lynn's daughter from support)
Brooke Cattron (VanBuskirk)
October 22, 2009
Mr. Kessler, Tiffany, and Trisha,
I am so sorry to hear about Sharon. I know firsthand how difficult it is to lose a family member to cancer at such a young age. All of you are in my thoughts and I am praying for each of you. I pray that you find peace in knowing Sharon is happy and pain free now.
I have so many wonderful memories of all you and your family. Your family was a great influence in my "growing up" years and all of you will always hold a special place in my heart.
I am so so sorry that all of you are going through this right now.
Much love,
Brooke Cattron (VanBuskirk)
Jennifer & Tony Henderson
October 22, 2009
Tiffany,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We continue to admire your stength and courage.
October 22, 2009
Mr. Kessler, Tiffany and Trisha,
May God bless all of you in this difficult time. He will guide you through. My prayers and thoughts are with you all! I am so sorry for your loss.
Trisha (Milford) Nguyen
Manuel Halkias
October 22, 2009
Craig, Tiffany, Tricia and family
You have my deepest sympathies. The joy, love, and energy with which Sharon approached life shine brightly in each of you.
God's Blessings,
Manny
October 22, 2009
It has been an honor and pleasure to know the Kessler family throughout the years. Your compassion and strength and love will endure. I hope you find peace, love and strength from this day forward. Memory eternal, God Bless you all.
Nour
Emily Frasco-Smith
October 22, 2009
Mrs. Kessler was an adopted mom during my years at Ohio University. She was a kind, thoughtful and loving mother to the entire OU Women's Swimming Team. She will be deeply missed.
Cristin Betro
October 22, 2009
I am so sorry for your lose. She was a great teacher and I was blessed to have her for my 8th and 9th grade years.
October 22, 2009
Dear Craig, Tiffany and Trisha,
My deepest sympathy is with you at this very sad time. I know Sharon was a tremendous fighter and an inspiration to everyone who knew her. May you find peace in the days ahead knowing that Sharon is no longer suffering. God bless all of you.
Sharon Dougherty
Kelli Ohman
October 22, 2009
Sharon will forever be in our hearts! She was loved by so many of us and touched all our lives with her joyful spirit and strength. I am thankful to have known her as a second mother for so many years. My heart goes out to Big Craig, Tiff & Josh, and Trish & Rich. I love you all so much! GOD bless!
nicole tanner
October 22, 2009
I am deeply sorry for your familys lose. I enjoyed being a student of hers at Middlebranch
Gary & Sherry Mengeu
October 22, 2009
Craig & Family
May God bless you in this time of sorrow. You will be in our prayers.
Thank you for being such good neighbors to our kids and grandkids.
They so enjoy seeing you out (Shelby, too) and running over to visit.
Take care & God Bless each of you.
Gary & Sherry Mengeu
bob Vero
October 22, 2009
Kessler Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Kess, I will always be there, I respect you and your family. I will see you when I get back from N.Y. Bobby V
Pam Fouse
October 22, 2009
Craig, Tiffany, Tricia and family,
Please know that you are in my prayers and thoughts. May the love of family and friends carry you through your grief ~ Let the beautiful memories of Sharon be with you forever. She knows how much she is loved!
October 22, 2009
Mr Kessler,
My deepest condolences. I know that Sharon is at eternal rest in the arms of the Lord. May her memories sustain you the rest of your life. Your friend Elias Coulas
Jamie M
October 22, 2009
Mrs. Kessler was my teacher at Middlebranch and GlenOak. She was a Great teacher and person. My Prayers are with the family. She will be missed very much.
Jamie
Showing 1 - 71 of 71 results
Make a Donation
in Sharon Kessler's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Sharon Kessler
Funeral services provided by:
Formet-Clevenger & Gordon Funeral Home1803 Cleveland Avenue NW, Canton, OH 44709
How to support Sharon's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Sharon Kessler's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
