Kessler, Robert James

Robert James Kessler, 63, longtime West Branch farmer, died Friday, Nov. 6, 2009, surrounded by his family at the Mercy Hospice Unit in Iowa City following a courageous battle with cancer. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Monday at St. Bridget's Cemetery in Nolan Settlement, with the Rev. Dennis Martin officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Lensing's Oak Hill, 210 Holiday Rd., Coralville, where a rosary will be recited at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Iowa City Hospice or Mercy Hospital Foundation for the Mercy Hospice Unit.

Bob was born Nov. 18, 1945, the son of James and Hilda (Meiers) Kessler. He was a graduate of West Branch High School. In September 1965, Bob married Linda Sorensen. They later separated, but remained great friends and Linda remained by his side during his entire illness. They farmed the Kessler family farm in rural West Branch.

Bob was employed at Procter & Gamble for 33 years. Bob liked to gamble, especially poker and the slot machines. He made frequent trips to Las Vegas with friends and the casinos in the Quad Cities and Riverside. He was also an avid deer hunter. Most importantly, Bob loved the time spent with his family, especially hanging out with his grandson, Garett.

Bob is survived by his life partner, Linda Kessler; their three children, Lisa (Todd) Boswell of Phoenix, Ariz., Amy (Larry) Lynch and their children, Tessa and Garett; and Mike (Betty) Kessler and children, Alex, Joe and Brittney, all of West Branch; his siblings, Don Kessler of West Branch and Larry (Bev) Kessler, Karlyn “Suz” Piatt and Marilyn (Rudy) Thurston, all of Tipton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents.

Online condolences and memories may be sent for the family at under obituaries.