Jacob Kessel

Jacob Kessel, age 83, of Henderson, Nevada passed away on Sunday, December 22, 2024. Jacob was born in St. Albans, New York to his parents Joseph Kessel and Emily Savacoules. At the age of 17 in 1958, Jacob enlisted in the US Air Force.

One of Jacob's first duty stations was at Clark AFB in the Philippines, which would be the beginning of a long and distinguished career. He served honorably in Vietnam as an enlisted Airman. Post war, Jacob went on to continue his education. He graduated from Campbell College in August of 1973 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. In February of 1976, he graduated from Suffolk College with a Masters Degree in Business Administration. While continuing to serve his country and to further his career, Jacob would graduate Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell AFB on June 6, 1985. He then went on to graduate from National Defense University with distinction in July of 1990. On December 1, 1993, Jacob was promoted to Colonel and Retired as O-6 in Sep 1998 after 40 years of active duty service. Prior to his retirement from the US Air Force, in addition to many service awards and medals, Jacob was awarded the Legion of Merit on 23 July 1998.

In retirement, Jacob relocated to Henderson, Nevada from Dayton Ohio in September of 1999. During his military life, Jacob loved to travel across the United States in an RV and was an avid runner. He enjoyed traveling to the Philippines and to Germany to visit family and friends. Jacob was also an adventurous person where he enjoyed beaches, hiking and the outdoors; and found peace while sailing on his sunfish sailboat.

In addition to the enjoying the outdoors; Jacob had other interests as well. He was a lover of music, specifically Neil Diamond; and learned to play the guitar. He loved politics and was President of the

Filipino American Club at Scott AFB from 1985-1987. Jacob also enjoyed dancing and researching his Kessel family genealogy.

Jacob was a true patriot, who proudly served his nation for over 40 years. He loved his nation, his family, and his friends; and lived his life to the fullest; he will truly be missed.

Jacob is survived by his spouse Norma Muego-Kessel; his daughter, Marie Jacqueline and her husband Ruediger; and his grandchildren: Jacob and Emilia. He is also survived by Norma's sons: Roger and Rey and their children; as well as his sisters: Marlene, Marie and Marjorie; and his brother, Ronald.

Jacob will be laid to rest with full military honors at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, Nevada.