Richard "Dick" Kessen

Richard Bradley 'Dick' Kessen, age 74, died unexpectedly, yet peacefully, on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at his home in Eland, with his little dog, Ute, at his side.
Dick was born on April 24, 1950, in Shawano, the third son of Harris and Nellie (Pietz) Kessen. He lived most of his life in Bowler, graduated from Bowler High School in 1968 and then enlisted and served his country in the Army National Guard for the next six years.
Dick was united in marriage to Pamela Henry on March 13, 1969, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Bowler. She preceded him in death on July 5, 1997.
Dick worked in the automotive industry until his retirement. He was the Parts Manager for All Car Automotive in Antigo, Service Manager for Brickner's in Schofield and Service Writer for Fred Mueller Automotive in Schofield.
Dick and Pam enjoyed shooting pool, snowmobiling and gardening. They also enjoyed camping at Star Campsite and later created a small campground for family and friends on their property east of Birnamwood.
Dick is survived by two sons, Mark and Chad, both of Birnamwood; grandchildren, Jordan (Katie) Kessen of Birnamwood and Kayleen Johnson of Cass Lake, MN and great grandchildren, Jazmyn Johnson and Serenity Moenke. He is further survived by brothers, Rev. (retired) Clifford (Audrey) Kessen of Tigerton, Larry (Cathy) Kessen and Tommy (Deb) Kessen, both of Birnamwood; brothers and sisters-in-law, Kenneth Henry Jr. of Bowler, LaMonte (Janet) Henry of Tomahawk, Steve (Diane) Henry of Birnamwood, David (Barbara) Henry of Deerbrook, Linda (Clayton) Laszewski of Wausau, Susan Henry of Schofield and Lisa Cox of Antigo. Dick is also survived by many nieces and nephews and special friend, Pamela Daffron.
In addition to his wife and parents, Dick was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Scott Henry and grandson, Aaron Pingel.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Birnamwood. Rev. Matthew Christians will preside. Burial will be in Forest Cemetery, Birnamwood, with military rites being conducted by Darling-Gunderson American Legion Post #341. Visitation will be on Thursday, from 9 AM until the time of service at the church.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Birnamwood is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.
Other Links
Kenneth Sr. & Dorothy Henry- father and mother-in-law