George Lawrence Kessler

George Lawrence (Larry) Kessler

January 27, 1950 – August 8, 2025

Age 75, of McHenry, IL

George lived a full and spirited life, one powered by equal parts ingenuity, stubbornness, and an insatiable sweet tooth. Born January 27, 1950, Larry spent his 75 years tinkering, inventing, woodworking, and proving that no home project was too big-or too small-for his careful attention. If he wasn't building something, he was likely at a flea market with his beloved wife Melanie, in search of antiques, tools, or something worth his time to tinker with.

A devoted Marine, George served his nation honorably during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Corporal. He proudly became the first in his family to earn a college degree and went on to serve at College of Lake County as a campus police officer for over three decades, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant. Known for his discipline, humor, and deep sense of duty, George's presence made a lasting mark on those around him.

George collected hobbies the way others collect dust-trains, video games, certifications, books, and tools filled his time and space. He was never one to sit still, unless, of course, there was a good comedy or a war movie playing. He was both meticulous and the self-proclaimed king of procrastination, somehow managing to be particular about everything while also insisting it could always wait until tomorrow. Stubborn as he was-"as immovable as a cozy armchair," his family would say-his strength was matched only by his gentleness.

Above all, George's greatest pride was his family. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He fawned over his wife of 34 years, Melanie (née Becker), as they shared many adventures, most of which took place at flea markets and antique stores.

His friends will remember him as loyal and good-humored, his family as endlessly loving, and someone who lived life on his own terms-sometimes stubbornly so, but always with heart.

Once George made up his mind, moving him was like trying to push a train uphill. He would say he was just set in his ways… and had them bolted, glued, and reinforced with wood screws.

George was preceded in death by his parents, George and Joyce (née Lindgren), and his siblings David, Kathleen, and Dan. He is survived by his loving wife Melanie; his brother Michael (Stephaney) Kessler; his children Erin, Alanna, George, Debra, and Lori; his grandchildren Drake, Drew, Olivia, Sophia, Lillian, Spencer, Harrison, Lena, Victoria, Alayna, and Hannah; his great-grandchildren Sylis and Lincoln, and his ever-watchful kitten Mittens.

He leaves behind a family, a community, and a lifetime of projects-some finished, some now forever "in progress"-but all a testament to his energy, creativity, and love.

A private ceremony will be held for family at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, George would have been honored by a donation in his name to Wounded Warriors. https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/default.aspx?tsid=10043