Agnes Jean Kessler

MERRILLVILLE, IN - Agnes Jean Kessler, 86, passed away December 8th, 2020, just short of her 87th birthday. Jean, the only name besides Nanny or Grandma she would answer to, is survived by her sons, Jim (Maggie) Kessler, Jeff (Sandra) Kessler, and daughter Wendy (Randy) Hamilton, ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren, two sisters, Marilyn Hopper and Donna Hoekstra, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Dean Kessler.

Jean grew up in Roseland, IL., met Dean at a roller skating rink and the rest is history! They were married July 1st, 1955, had their first child Nov. 1956, then shortly after moved to Colorado for four years before moving to Munster, IN. Soon after they bought a house on South St. in Munster, had two more children, and stayed for the next 56 years. She was a member of South Side Christian Church, bowled in the mixed church league with Dean, played Bunko with her life long friends, sold Fuller Brush for 30 plus years, went to Bible study, and raised their three children in a God filled home. Nanny/Grandma loved to be with her grandchildren and great grandchildren whenever possible. She lived for those kids. She made sure all the grandkids had a chance to help make her famous chocolate chips cookies, have weekend sleep overs, camping, the zoo, and even antiquing. Jean collected tooth pick holders. That's an understatement. She had over 1000 tooth pick holders, all cataloged in her book of when, where, and how much it cost. She also had her angels and Snow Babies collections. One of her favorite things to do is get in the Studebaker truck with Dean and go! Go to the Studebaker meets and shows, bowling tournaments, camping, antiquing, or just get in and drive till they decided to stop, one or two states away from home! Holidays were always at their house with more food than we could eat so naturally we all went home with leftovers. The house was always decorated for all the holidays as well. The one thing that Jean always did was minister to those in need. Even while being treated for a stroke, couldn't stop her from helping two nurses who were taking care of her. Energizer Bunny was her nickname because she never stopped moving. She never listened to us when we would say "Sit down mom, take a break!" It may be overused but she was truly one of a kind. Thank you mom for all you did for us, your relatives and friends, and the many others you helped along your way.

Due to the second outbreak of Covid-19, we feel that we can not jeopardize the health of all her/our relatives, friends, and neighbors by holding a visitation or service at this time. We want to thank you for your love, prayers and kindness you have shown us during our time of loss and especially the love you had for her.