01/15/2025
James “Jim” H. Kessler, 87, of Marysville, passed away Saturday afternoon, January 11, 2025, at his home following months of failing health.
One of two children, Jim was born May 15, 1937, in Columbus, to the late Harold C. and Viola (Reeder) Kessler. A graduate of South High School and veteran of the US Army, Jim began his long and proud career as a firefighter and paramedic that spanned 30 years. He worked as a firefighter and fire inspector, beginning in 1960 at Station 10 and then continued at Station 17, both on West Broad St. He eventually became one of the first paramedics to train for the pioneering “Heartmobile,” which went into service in April of 1969 and is believed to be the first of its kind in the United States– the predecessor to the modern-day ambulance. He retired from the Columbus Division of Fire in 1990. During his early years as a firefighter/paramedic, Jim met and married his beloved wife, Virgina L. Jeffrey, March 12, 1966. She preceded him in death on March 3, 2005, after nearly 40 years of marriage.
During his working years and after retirement, Jim enjoyed farming on his 120 acre farm on Ford Reed Rd., where he also did construction jobs on the side – he simply liked to keep busy. A man of strong faith, he attended the Church of Christ in both Marysville and Delaware, and was also a member and past president of the Marysville Evening Lions Club. Incredibly handy, Jim also loved and had great skill for wood working, and he enjoyed fishing and rooting on the Ohio State Buckeyes. He found great joy in being around children, and became known as “Mr. Jim” the candy man at church. The children of his congregation flocked to him every Sunday for some sweet treats, and the church gifted him a cloth candy bag signed by the children for him to use. While this role was a delight to him, nothing gave him greater happiness than his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren, and recently his “fur grandchild” Zoe. They were the light of his life.
Jim is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Brian (Barbara) Kessler of Bellefontaine; grandchildren Samanatha (Rickey) Thompson and Drew (Cole) Kessler; beloved great grandchildren Andrew, Brian, Rickey and Nyah; a sister Dorothy Carte; a step son-in-law Bob Roscigno; good friend Bill Phyllis; as well as several extended family members and friends.
Along with his parents and his loving wife, Virgina, he was also preceded in death by a step daughter, Connie Roscigno; and a brother-in-law Gene Carte.
Calling hours will be 4-7 pm on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Ingram & Snyder Funeral Home, 975 N. Maple St., Marysville. Private family burial will be held at Oakdale Cemetery with burial next to his wife, Virginia.
Ingram & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve Jim’s family, and condolences may be expressed to them at
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