Karol Sue Kessler (84) of Stewardson

Karol Sue Kessler, a treasured soul and matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully at the comfort of her home on December 6, 2023, at the age of 84.

Born on May 26, 1939, in Mattoon, Illinois, she was the cherished daughter of the late Allen and Lillian (McCoy) Kelly. Karol's journey began beside her loving parents and was enriched when she united in marriage with Glen Lee Kessler on June 15, 1958. Their partnership was a testament to unwavering love and shared values, nurturing a family and a farm with equal measures of hard work and grace. Though Glen preceded her in death on October 8, 2003, their legacy continued to flourish through their sons, Bradley of Effingham, Allen L. (Geannine) of Shumway, and Timothy E. (Pat) of Mode, and their adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family tree Karol helped cultivate stands strong with the branches of her beloved grandchildren: Summer Kessler of Effingham, Aaron VanScyoc of Watson, Dirk (Leslie) Kessler of Swansea, Trenten(Amanda) Kessler of St. Louis, MO, Shauna (Brent) Curry of Mode, Tory (Ben) Holste of Shumway, Chad (Vanessa) Kessler of Mode, and Adam (Alyssa) Kessler of Sigel. The joy of her life was further multiplied by the laughter and wonder of her thirteen great-grandchildren, with the anticipation of one more on the horizon. Karol's sister, Mary Beth Welch of Phoenix, AZ, also survives her, carrying the memories of their shared past. Karol's roots ran deep not only in her family but also in her community. Alongside Glen, she was a pillar of the agricultural community as a lifelong dairy and grain farmer. Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, and as a member of Washington United Methodist Church in Mode, she exemplified the virtues of compassion and service. Her commitment to preserving the past for future generations was evident through her involvement with the Stewardson Historical Society, and her zest for life shone brightly as a member of the Red Hat Society in Stewardson.

The visitation for Karol will be held from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson. Her life will be celebrated and remembered during the funeral services at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at the Washington United Methodist Church in Mode, with Pastor Mike Shultz officiating. Karol will be laid to rest at Stewardson Cemetery. In honor of Karol, memorials may be given in her name to the C.O.W.S Playground Fund or to the Stewardson American Legion Wilbur Broughton Post 611. Karol Sue Kessler's life was a journey of love, dedication, and service. Her story is not one of an end but a continuation through the lives of those she loved and the community she cherished. Her memory will be held in the hearts of many, a beacon of the warmth and light she brought into the world.