Mr. James E. Kesler, 75, of Rochester, passed away at 2:01 PM, Friday, December 22, 2017 at his residence.

On January 28, 1942, James Edward Kesler was born in Mentone to  N.E. and Esther Miller Kesler.  Growing up he shared his childhood with a brother Kenny.  During their school years the Kesler family moved to Richland Township.  Jim was a proud Richland Center Wildcat, graduating in 1964 with the last class of RCHS.

Soon after graduation, patriotism beckoned, Jim answered the call serving with the United States Army shortly after the Vietnam War.

Jim and Kitty L Sayger married and shared many years of life's adventures. From their union came a handsome son Blake.  The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of  two grandchildren and a great-grandson.

A life member of the Manitou Moose Family Center, Jim also held memberships with the Leroy Shelton American Legion Post # 36,  Manitou VFW Post # 1343,  the Elks and Eagles  Fraternal Lodges.  For the past six years, Jim drove a school bus for Rochester Community Schools.

Jim is survived by a son, Blake Kesler and wife Stacey of Kewanna; grandson Zachery Kesler of Kewanna, granddaughter Lyndy Szmara and husband Zachary of Logansport; great grandson Isaac Caleb Szmara; and a brother, Kenny Kesler and wife Karen of Rochester.

Preceding Jim in death are his parents, beloved wife Kitty on January 31,2014, and sister Barb.

Pastor Zachary Szmara will officiate services. Interment will be in the Rochester IOOF.