James Richard Kissel

Jim was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Joseph Richard Kissel and Florence Mary Kissel. A proud Clevelander, he graduated from St. Edward High School and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from Xavier University in Cincinnati.

He began his career teaching mathematics in both Cincinnati and Cleveland before transitioning into the actuarial field, where his sharp mind and analytical abilities led him to become an enrolled actuary. Jim spent many successful years in Ohio before relocating to Connecticut, where he founded his own actuarial firm. That firm later grew into Kissel, Kneale and Tobin in Madison, Connecticut. He was a member of the American Academy of Actuaries and the American Society of Pension Actuaries, taught exam preparation courses, and contributed published articles to several professional journals.

Jim was known for his strong opinions, quick intellect, and unmistakable presence. He brought a sharp wit to everyday life and enjoyed humor, often delivered with a playful edge. While he could be direct and firm in his views, he was also a man who showed his care through action - providing for his family, supporting his employees, and ensuring those in his circle were well taken care of.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Susan Kissel, with whom he recently celebrated 23 years of marriage.

Jim took pride in his work and in the life he built. He also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures like playing tennis, skiing at Mount Snow, golfing, bowling, and his involvement in the breeding and racing of horse trotters with his brother. In later years, he retired to North Fort Myers, Florida, where he enjoyed sunsets from his lanai, watching golfers pass by, and spending time with his beloved dogs.

Jim is survived by his wife, Susan Kissel; his children Sandra Dedinsky (Robert), Sharon Schnaterbeck (R. Conley), Geoffrey Kissel (Lauren), and Leah Kocher (Justin); and his stepchildren Alyssa Springs (Adrian), Valerie Price (Danny), and Nicholas Correll (Jen). He is also survived by his grandchildren Ryan Dedinsky (Amanda), Alyssa Dedinsky, Hannah Schnaterbeck, Madelyn Schnaterbeck, Gabrielle Davenport (Carsen), Ava Kissel, Ella Kissel, Alexis Kocher, Haiden Correll, Makennah Correll, Adelaide Correll, Everly Correll, Maliah Price, Gavin Price, and Brinlee Moya; and great-grandchildren Caden Dedinsky, Xander James Dedinsky, and Brooks Grey Davenport. He is further survived by his sister Janet Dwight (Carl) and brother Terry Kissel. He was preceded in death by his great-grandson, Bryson.

Those who loved Jim may take comfort in knowing he is at peace and in the presence of angels - watching and waiting for those he loved. His memory lives on in the family he provided for and

the many people whose lives were shaped by his strength, his intellect, and his enduring presence.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Edward High School in Cleveland, Ohio.

Arrangements are entrusted to Coral Ridge Funeral Home in Cape Coral, Florida. Jim’s final resting place will be at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Winchester, Virginia. Services will be private.