Eileen Anna Elizabeth Kessel

Eileen Anna Elizabeth Kessel, 84, of Caledonia, MN passed away on Wednesday October 13 ^th , 2021, at her home. She was born on January 14 ^th , 1937, in Postville, Iowa to Lawrence and Hulda (Kuhse) Block.

Eileen was a loving wife and an amazing mother. Harry and Eileen were married June 3 ^rd , 1955. She cherished her family and was so amazed and proud of the large close-knit family she and her husband created. She was dearly loved and will be missed by all.

Over the years Eileen worked as a legal secretary, an office administrator at The La Crosse Cooler Company, a route driver for the La Crosse Tribune and Program Coordinator at SEMCAC in Rushford, MN up until her retirement. She had many lifelong childhood friends and close co-workers with whom she kept in contact.

Eileen often had a large garden that provided for the family and friends, and she adored her flowers. She had a real talent for refinishing and restoring antique furniture and spent years filling her home with her finds. In later years she returned to her crocheting, known for her beautiful handmade doilies, pillowcases, knitted purses, mittens, and kitchen scrubbies that she loved gifting to family and friends.

Eileen is survived by her husband, Harry “Sonny” Kessel and four children: Greg (Erika) Kessel, Tracy (Jon) Riek, Wanda (Karl(d) Parkes and Callie (Daniel) Stanhope; her Grandchildren: Cody, Courtney, Caitlyn, Cameron, Skylar, Riley, Larissa, Travis, Torre, Brady, Bethany, Lucus, Clinton, Anthony, and Ryan; twenty-two Great Grand Children; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents; son, Randy L. Kessel; son-in-law, Karl R. Parkes; daughter-in-law, Jonie Kessel; and four brothers, Marvin E. Block, Lyle H. Block, Curtis L. Block and Duane M. Block.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 13 ^th , at Faith Lutheran Church, 1407 Main Street, La Crosse, with visitation beginning at noon. Rev. Jacob Eichers will officiate. A luncheon will be served at the church following the service.