Marlene Kessler

Marlene J. Kessler, 79, of Leola, SD, passed away Thursday, April 6, 2023, at Aberdeen Health and Rehab.

A Graveside Committal Service will be held at 10:30 am, Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at Sunset Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

Visitation will be 5-8 pm, Tuesday at Schriver’s Memorial Chapel.

Schriver’s Memorial Mortuary and Crematory, 414 5th Avenue NW, Aberdeen, is in charge of arrangements.  Family and friends may sign the online guestbook.

Marlene J. Hettich was born on January 28, 1944, to Elmer and Clara (Semmler) Hettich in Roscoe, SD.  She was raised and attended school in Roscoe, graduating from Roscoe High School.  Following graduation, Marlene moved to Aberdeen and attended Stewarts School of Hairstyling.

Marlene married Clarence Kessler on October 24, 1963. The couple moved to a farm near Leola. They were blessed with four children: Jim, Kim, Tim, and Lynn.  The couple raised their children on the family farm.  Marlene was the head cook for the Leola School District for many years. She also worked at the D & M Cafe for many years.  She enjoyed being a homemaker and attending auction sales. Clarence passed away in March of 2021.  Marlene continued to live on the family farm after Clarence’s passing.

Grateful for having shared Marlene’s life are her children: Jim (Judy Ketchersid) Kessler of Mobridge, SD, Kim Merkel of Ellendale, ND, Tim Kessler of Leola, SD, Lynn (Stephan) Wright of Houghton, SD; twelve grandchildren: Cheyann (Scott) Mann, Camy Jo (Hunter) Weber, Shamee Merkel, Shania Merkel, Ty Kessler, Whyatt Kessler, Sierra Kessler, Savannah Kessler, Sienna Kessler, Aurora Kessler, Nathan Wright, and Madilyn Wright; and four great-grandchildren.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Clarence; one half-brother Maurice Semmler; and one granddaughter Katie Wright.

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