Thomas "Tom" Kessler passed away peacefully at home on June 22nd, at the age of 86.

Tom was born on September 20, 1939, in Appleton, Wisconsin, to Edward and Mary (Langenberg) Kessler. He grew up in a large Catholic family and carried his faith with him throughout his entire life.

As a young man, Tom felt called to serve God and was ordained a Roman Catholic Priest through St. Anthony Capuchin Seminary in Marathon, Wisconsin. His studies took him far beyond Wisconsin, including time studying theology in Berkeley, California and Italy and teaching in Nicaragua. He later earned the title of Novice Master at St. Felix Friary in Huntington, Indiana, helping guide others in their spiritual journeys.

In 1973, Tom met Joyce. Faced with a decision that would change the course of his life, he answered the call to leave the order while never leaving behind his faith. He remained deeply proud of his years as a Catholic Priest and often joked that he was one of the few people to receive all seven Sacraments.

Tom and Joyce were married on June 24, 1978. Their wedding invitation reflected the joy and simplicity that would define their life together. Handwritten and illustrated by Tom, it read: "Hi! We're getting married! We're also very happy about it, and want to share our joy and celebrate it with our families, and the entire community."

Together, Tom and Joyce devoted their lives to service, social justice, and caring for those who often went unseen. Tom helped establish meal programs for elderly and disabled individuals in Brown County and was the director of Aging and Meal Programs in Oconto County. In 1981, they moved to northwest Wisconsin and became part of Dorea Community, where they raised their two daughters, Annette and Laura.

Throughout his life, Tom worked to help others. He spent years with Private Industry Council helping individuals find meaningful employment and was involved with Northwest Homes, building and repairing houses for families in need. Additionally, he contributed to the founding of Polk County’s Community Referral Agency, which established housing opportunities and transitional shelter for families seeking safety and a fresh start.

Tom believed deeply that every person deserved dignity, compassion, and a place to belong. He worked alongside local tribal communities, advocated for environmental stewardship, and dedicated countless hours to causes that reflected his belief in justice and equality.

Tom and Joyce built their family home with the help of relatives and close friends, creating not just a house but a place of welcome and community. It was there that Tom's daughters learned many of life's most important lessons. They remember walking quietly with him at dusk to a nearby creek after digging worms in the yard, fishing with long cane poles and bringing home perch for dinner. He taught them how to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, care for all living things, and live simply and gratefully. His love extended to every creature, and he was known to lovingly perform burial rites for family pets, including guinea pigs, when their time came.

Tom lived thoughtfully and intentionally. He spent hours reading, studying theology, and writing poetry. He was a published author of two books and wrote hundreds of poems. Rarely was he found without a book in his hands, filled with highlighted passages, notes, and reflections. One of his favorite poems was Robert Frost's "The Road Not Taken," perhaps because it reflected the life he chose to live; a life guided not by convention, but by conscience, faith, and love.

Those who knew Tom will remember his enormous smile, his warm hugs, and his genuine interest in others. He cared deeply about the world and the people in it. He never sought recognition for his work, only opportunities to help. He found joy in simple things; watching and commenting on the many birds that visited his carefully tended bird feeders, spending time in nature, and cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines. Whether it was a soccer match, basketball game, or football game, Tom rarely missed a chance to support them.

Even during his final years, Tom remained grateful, welcoming every visitor with kindness and appreciation. Though many things changed, his smile never left him. 

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary (Langenberg) Kessler; his sister, Sister Donna Marie Kessler; his sister, Virginia Bolwerk; and his brothers, Robert Kessler, John Kessler, and Larry Kessler.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Joyce Kessler; his daughters, Annette (Joe) Breeggemann and Laura (William) Connor; his grandchildren, Eddie Johnson, Miles Johnson, Ayla Connor, Will Connor, and Eliott Connor; his sister, Donna Kessler; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members whose lives were touched by his generosity and kindness.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers and angels of St. Croix Hospice. In his final days, Tom was shown the same kindness, dignity, and love that he had spent a lifetime giving to others. It was a gift beyond measure and a fitting reflection of the life he lived.

Funeral services will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Amery, WI on Friday, July 10th. The visitation begins at 3:00 p.m., Mass will follow at 4:00 p.m., with a dinner to follow.

The family gratefully welcomes flowers. For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be made to CRA Shelter (http://www.crashelter.org) or the Capuchin Novitiate program (http://www.capuchins.org/novitiate) in honor of Tom's life.

For a man who spent his life choosing the path of service, compassion, and love, Tom's journey reminds us that the road less traveled often makes all the difference.

Last Update: Jun 26, 2026 9:31 am CDT