George M. Kessler, Ph.D.

 

Born July 26, 1917 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania son of the late Frank and Sophie Kessler passed away at his home on Thursday, June 21, 2012 at the age of 94. George showed unconditional love and generosity for everyone he met and will be fondly remembered.

Surviving are his son, Frank Kessler; daughter, Marsha (Frank) Pattinson; grandchildren, Gabriel (Erika), Dylan, Aaron (Carla), Noah, and Jessie (Lauren); great-grandchildren, Jonah and Gwen; sister Edi Silverman along with his loving nieces and nephews and other extended family members.

George received his BS and MS from Penn State and PhD. from Michigan State where he taught horticulture for over 35 years and was a committed teacher, advisor and scientist.  During World War II he served in the China-Burma-India theatre. He and his late wife Esther traveled widely with a special emphasis on visits to Israel. He was a committed Labor-Zionist and Yiddish scholar who maintained that interest his entire life. In retirement he volunteered at Radio Talking Books, was active in Congregation Kehillat Israel and of course, an avid gardener and loyal friend.

Funeral Services will be held at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel on Sunday, June 24, 2012 at 12:00 p.m. with Rabbi Michael Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Kessler Film Series in the MSU Jewish Studies program, or Congregation Kehillat Israel.