Vernon R. Kessler

Vernon Robert "Bud" Kessler, 102, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, with his family by his side, after a short illness. He was born on December 27, 1922, and grew up in Whitesboro and Barneveld, New York.
Vernon began his career at Savage Arms Company in Utica, where he worked from 1940 to 1945 and learned the trade of drafting. Following World War II, he joined Carrier Corporation, where he worked for 37 years and retired as Manager of Engineering Standards. It was there that he met his beloved wife of 65 years, Barbara (Birdseye).
Beyond his professional life, Vern cherished time with his family-both at home and at his beloved camp, "Sleepy Hollow," in Brantingham, New York. He was an avid woodworker, sailing enthusiast, berry picker, birdwatcher and a talented cook and baker. He also enjoyed attending estate sales with Barbara and spending time at the Fayetteville Senior Center playing Mexican Train Dominoes.
In his later years, Vern especially loved time spent with his children, eight grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. His face always lit up when the grandkids and great-grandkids came to visit. He treasured summers at Brantingham and enjoyed many family trips to Disney World, Henderson, Nevada; St. Simons Island; Eufaula, Alabama; the Virgin Islands; and the Florida Keys.
Vernon is survived by two children, David (Barbara) Kessler of Eufaula, AL, and Cynthia (Jeffrey) Warner of Marietta, NY; eight grandchildren, Daniel, Charlene (Gene) Deakyne, Lindsay (Allen) Stanton, David, James (Alli), Joshua (Kristin) Warner, Savonnah (John) Zayas, and Kathleen (Javier) Warner; and thirteen great-grandchildren (and one on the way): Luke, Emily, and Ava Deakyne; Hanna, Samuel, Andrew, and Leah Stanton; Finn Kessler; Caiden, Isabella, and Mateo Zayas; and Logan and Layla Warner; along with Santiago Baldrich. He is also survived by two nieces, Ruth (Zig) Malowicki and Ann Etter.
He was predeceased by his parents, Vernon and Myrtle Kessler; his wife, Barbara; his son, Richard; sister, Rae; and brother, Glen. Calling hours will be 5 to 6pm at the Eaton-Tubbs Fayetteville Chapel, 7191 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville, NY 13066. Followed by a memorial service at 6pm at the funeral home. Burial will be private.
The family extends sincere thanks to the wonderful healthcare providers at Upstate Community Hospital for their compassionate care during Vern's brief stay. Special thanks also go to his dedicated caregiver and fellow Mexican Train player of the last four years, Christina Veley.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Fayetteville Senior Center, 584 E. Genesee Street, Fayetteville, NY 13066.