James Edward Kessler Sr.

James Edward Kessler Sr., 92, of South Charleston passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2015, at Thomas Memorial Hospital, South Charleston. James was born on August 17, 1922 in Berkeley, CA. He served as a propeller mechanic in the U.S. Navy during WWII. James worked for Union Carbide for 35 years until he retired in April 1982. He enjoyed working with electronics. James was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Parish of Charleston. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from this parish in March, 2002. He was most proud of his children and their accomplishments and enjoyed and loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Eunice Leigh Kessler; son, Larry Eugene Kessler; parents, William and Marguerite Kessler; brothers, William, Robert and Richard Kessler; and sister, Margaret Broom. James is survived by his children, James E. Jr. (Dee) of Huntersville, NC, Dr. John F. (Lynn) of Poquoson, Va., Thomas A. (Lana) of Hurricane, and Cynthia A. Hill (Cy) of Hurricane; eight grandchildren; and 15 great-grand-children. He is also survived by his sisters, Clair Milligan of FL, Virginia (Keith) Stawney of SC and Ann Rada of Charleston; and brother, John (Carmelina) Kessler of Dunbar. A funeral mass for James Edward Kessler will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, January 12, 2015 at St. Anthony Catholic Parish, Charleston, with Father Jim Kurtz officiating. Family and friends may visit from 4:00 to 5:45 pm with a prayer service at 5:45 pm on Sunday, January 11, 2015 at Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donation be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church, 1000 6th St., Charleston, WV 25302.