James Phillip Kessel

Jim grew up on a pheasant farm in Canton, South Dakota. He served in the US Navy from 1961-1964 as an electronics technician and later graduated from the University of South Dakota, where he developed an interest in computers. He enjoyed successful careers in both commercial mortgage banking and computer technology. Jim was interested in politics his whole life and listened to the news daily, even the week that he died. After becoming heart transplant recipient #154 at the University Medical Center (U of A) in 1987, Jim became a staunch advocate for organ donation in Arizona.

Jim never went anywhere without a book. He enjoyed camping with his family; hiking with his hiking group; and socializing with wonderful friends in Mesa, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, and across the country. He loved history, good food, a good story, and a bad joke.

He was a loving husband, father, brother, and friend who comported himself with integrity and who, by his example, invited all who knew him to think critically about the world around them. He will be deeply missed. Jim is survived by his wife of 44 years, Ellarita (Ellie); son Kevin Kessel and daughter-in-law Francesca Kessel, and their children Drew and Sara; daughter Alisa Kessel and son-in-law Ben Mauk; sister Martha Kern and brother-in-law Jack Kern; sister Mary Warhol and brother-in-law Mark Warhol; brother-in-law Michael Pierno; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held for Jim at 10:30 a.m. on May 14, 2015 at Mariposa Gardens at 6747 East Broadway Road in Mesa. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 East Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014, www.hov.org or to an organization of the donator’s choice.