Steven "Pops" Kessler
Steven “Pops” Kessler, 80, passed away on December 7, 2025. Born on February 2, 1945 in Pittsburgh, PA, Steve lived a life built on hard work, loyalty, and deep affection for the people who meant the most to him.
Steve grew up in a close-knit Pittsburgh family, and he carried that upbringing with him wherever he went. He had a work ethic that never wavered. As a general contractor and project manager with Turnberry Associates and Fountainebleau Development, Steve had a hand in creating hotels, high-rises, and major projects that stood tall — just like he did. He took pride in doing things the right way, and in being the steady presence people could count on.
When Steve settled into the Aventura community, he found a place that felt like home. He loved the energy, the warmth, and the friendships he built there — especially through the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center, where he felt a true sense of belonging.
Sports were woven into his life from the start. Like his father before him, Steve was a devoted — sometimes long-suffering — Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He could talk sports with real insight, breaking down a play or a season like a coach, depending on the moment. And he wasn’t just a fan; Steve was a natural athlete who excelled at anything he set out to play.
More than anything, Steve loved being “Pops.” Time spent with his children and his six grandchildren brought him genuine joy. He lit up around them. Those moments — simple, everyday, full of warmth — were the ones he treasured most.
Steve is survived by his brother Richard Kessler (Karen); his brother-in-law Steve Katzki; his daughter Leah Kessler Denson (Scott); his son Brandon Kessler (Ella); and his grandchildren Jacob, Vivian, Isabella, Corinne, Eliza, and Maxine. He is also survived by his nephews Joshua Kessler (Jessi) and their sons Kainoa and Kilani’io, and Jordan Kessler (Beth) and their daughter Sophie.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Bella (Levine) Kessler, and his sisters Rosalie and Jane.
Steve will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who shared a piece of life with him.
A service honoring his life will be held Wednesday, December 10th at 11 a.m. at the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center. He will be laid to rest at Beth Shalom Cemetery in Pittsburgh, PA, on Friday, December 12th at 2 p.m.
Steven “Pops” Kessler, 80, passed away on December 7, 2025. Born on February 2, 1945 in Pittsburgh, PA, Steve lived a life built on hard work, loyalty, and deep affection for the people who meant the most to him.
Steve grew up in a close-knit Pittsburgh family, and he carried that upbringing with him wherever he went. He had a work ethic that never wavered. As a general contractor and project manager with Turnberry Associates and Fountainebleau Development, Steve had a hand in creating hotels, high-rises, and major projects that stood tall — just like he did. He took pride in doing things the right way, and in being the steady presence people could count on.
When Steve settled into the Aventura community, he found a place that felt like home. He loved the energy, the warmth, and the friendships he built there — especially through the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center, where he felt a true sense of belonging.
Sports were woven into his life from the start. Like his father before him, Steve was a devoted — sometimes long-suffering — Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He could talk sports with real insight, breaking down a play or a season like a coach, depending on the moment. And he wasn’t just a fan; Steve was a natural athlete who excelled at anything he set out to play.
More than anything, Steve loved being “Pops.” Time spent with his children and his six grandchildren brought him genuine joy. He lit up around them. Those moments — simple, everyday, full of warmth — were the ones he treasured most.
Steve is survived by his brother Richard Kessler (Karen); his brother-in-law Steve Katzki; his daughter Leah Kessler Denson (Scott); his son Brandon Kessler (Ella); and his grandchildren Jacob, Vivian, Isabella, Corinne, Eliza, and Maxine. He is also survived by his nephews Joshua Kessler (Jessi) and their sons Kainoa and Kilani’io, and Jordan Kessler (Beth) and their daughter Sophie.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Bella (Levine) Kessler, and his sisters Rosalie and Jane.
Steve will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who shared a piece of life with him.
A service honoring his life will be held Wednesday, December 10th at 11 a.m. at the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center. He will be laid to rest at Beth Shalom Cemetery in Pittsburgh, PA, on Friday, December 12th at 2 p.m.
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