Harry Lavern Kessel

Harry Lavern Kessel “Sonny”, 90, formerly of Caledonia, MN passed away peacefully on Wednesday November 29th, 2023. He was born on August 22nd, 1933 in Iowa City to Harry and Anna (Afstad) Kessel.

Harry was a loving husband and father. Harry married his beloved wife Eileen on June 3rd, 1955. He cherished his family and was so amazed by the large sprawling family they created that seems to grow and grow. He was dearly loved and his smile and wit will be missed by all.

Harry loved trout fishing and wanted to go fishing up to the very end. He ran a Citgo station located on West Avenue in La Crosse and was known for his mechanical abilities far and wide. Many local race car drivers in the area turned to Harry for carburetor work. He was very handy at Construction as well and worked as a journeyman and millwright after closing the Citgo station. Later in life, he oversaw the weatherization program for SEMCAC in Rushford and Winona up until his retirement. He always worked with his hands and took his time to pass his wisdom onto his children so they would grow up and know how to fix most anything as well.

Harry is survived by four children: Greg (Erika) Kessel, Tracy (Jon) Riek, Wanda (Karl) Parkes and Callie (Daniel) Stanhope. His Grandchildren: Cody, Courtney, Caitlyn, Cameron, Skylar, Riley, Larissa, Travis, Torrence, Brady, Bethany, Lucus, Clinton, Anthony and Ryan, 27 Great Grand Children and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Harry was preceded in death by his beloved wife Eileen, his parents, a son, Randy L. Kessel, son-in-law Karl R. Parkes, daughter in law Jonie Kessel and siblings, Lillian Gruhn, Donald (Bud) Kessel, Alice Hummel, and Francis (Butch) Kessel.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday, December 7th, 2023 at Faith Lutheran Church on 1407 Main Street, La Crosse, WI for family and friends. Visitation at 11:00 am, with services held at Noon. A luncheon will be served afterward at the church. Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

To view the Funeral livestream, please go to https://www.faithonmain.com/kessel