Joseph Kessel

1930 - 2021

Joseph Leonard Kessel

Joseph Leonard Kessel, born on September 1, 1930, passed away Wednesday, December 22, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Karen (Gustafson) of Cotati, his older sister, Margaret Hunter of Anchorage, Alaska and his half-sister Maria Collins of Covelo and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Edward Luther Kessel and Edward's second wife Berta Kessel of Milwaukie, Oregon, and by his mother Mary (Hicks, Kessel) Chiaratino. Growing up mainly in Mill Valley, Joe played football for Tamalpais High School and the University of California at Berkeley, where he majored in history and belonged to Zeta Psi fraternity. Joining the Merchant Marines after college enabled travel to the Philippines, Japan, India, South America, and Italy. He later returned to college at Sonoma State University to study literature and creative writing. He wrote poetry and labored on a novel manuscript throughout his remaining years.
Contributions to his memory may be made by donating to the California Historical Society. A memorial service is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, February 19, 2022 at noon at Faith Presbyterian Church, 190 Arlen Drive, Rohnert Park. Contact Daniels Chapel of the Roses to confirm the service details in case of further COVID restrictions.