Eva Kessler

Eva Kesslerage 102, passed away Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at the Hawley Senior Living Center. She was born on May 27th, 1924, in Funston, ND to David and Karolina (Dockter) Gienger. She went to school in Funston through 8th grade and received her GED 47 years later which made her children proud. She married Paul J. Kessler Sr on June 15th, 1947, in Funston. He passed on August 5, 2007. They made their homes in Minot, Des Lacs, Burlington and Cando, ND, each move to a larger house for a larger family. Starting in 1948, a new child came along every two years until the seventh was born in 1960. Mom worked as a homemaker, operator of a grocery store with dad and then as a longtime receptionist at Palmer Clinic, Cando, ND. She was active with her church- Cando Lutheran Church. She also loved their trailers on Devils Lake, ND and Pelican Lake, MB. After retirement they moved to Detroit Lakes, MN in 2001.

Eva had many interests but it as a Reader that she'll be remembered by family and friends. Her homes were always filled with books which brought her much joy.

Eva is survived by daughters: Karen (Wayne) Severson, Sandi Kessler, Nancy (Rob) Wagner; sons: Tim (Mary) Kessler, Paul Kessler Jr., Kevin (Bridget) Kessler. She loved and was loved by her 17 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son - Kenneth, three brothers and four sisters.Memorial Services will be held 2:00 PM, Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the David-Donehower Funeral Home, 609 US Hwy 10 East, Detroit Lakes, MN. Chaplain Dirk Jasperse officiating. The family will receive friends an hour before services. Mrs. Kessler will be laid to rest with her husband at the North Dakota State Veterans Cemetery in Mandan, ND. Memorial contributions in Eva's memory may be given to HIA Hospice or the ND State Veterans Cemetery in Mandan, ND.