Ardena Ann Kessler

Ardena Ann Kessler, 88, passed away peacefully with family by her side December 2, 2018 at the Pickering House, Lancaster, Ohio, after a short illness. Deanie was born October 25, 1930, the middle daughter of three girls born to Arden Smallwood and Verle (Jean Hoskins) Smallwood. She grew up in Columbus, Ohio where she graduated from South High School.

She met and married David Light Kessler, JD, in 1954, who predeceased her in 1998. They began their family in Vandalia, Ohio with the birth of their son Russell. After returning to Bexley, Ohio, they completed their family with daughter Karen.

Deanie had a busy life as a homemaker, a journalist for the Vinton Co. Courier, and working for the Vinton Co. Child Support Agency. She loved DIY projects, crafting and decorating, but not cooking or the color purple! In later years, she enjoyed emails with friends, line dancing at Olivedale, Solitaire on the computer or with cards, and Bingo at the Bickford Assisted Living Facility.

She will be greatly missed by her family: son Russell (Lisa) Kessler, Lancaster, Ohio, and grandson Drew (Jessica) and children Cameron & Emerson, NC, grandson Braden Kessler, Toledo, Oh; Daughter Karen Kessler Stout (William), Bozeman, Montana, and grandson Ryan (Meg) and children Paul, Benedict & Alexander, MT, and grandson Corey (Sarah) Stout, PA; brother-in-law, Wendell (Claire) Kessler Columbus, and their family. The family would like to thank her Bickford family and nurses for many years of excellent care; her many caregivers and Doctors including Mark Lepi, MD, and the FairHope Hospice.

Private burial and graveside service at Elk Cemetery in McArthur, OH. Friends & family are invited to a memorial celebration of her life to be held at The Bickford Assisted Living, 1834 Countryside Dr., Lancaster, OH on Thursday, December 6th at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice or FairHope Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 282 Sells Rd, Lancaster, OH 43130.

“So, when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart,

For every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart.”

Author Unknown