Jim Kessler

(From Parker Mortuary)

James “Jim” Bahner Kessler passed away, peacefully in his home, in Webb City, Missouri on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the age of 69.

Jim was born May 27, 1955, in Columbus, Ohio. He grew up in Utah and graduated from Ben Lomond High School and went on to attend the University of Utah where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Criminology and Corrections. Jim briefly resided in Kansas before moving to the Joplin, Missouri area where he began working for the State of Missouri as a Probation and Parole Officer. He was also an EMT for Mountain West Ambulance for years. 

Jim was a longtime member of the Elks Lodge and loved spending time with the friends he made. One of his favorite hobbies was riding his Harley Davidson. He also loved making trips to Ohio to spend time with his uncle Wendell Kessler where they would go camping, fishing, and just enjoy the time they had to spend together. His entire world was centered around his beloved wife, Traci, and their dog, Sonja. Jim loved and adored the both of them more than anything.

Jim was a very outgoing individual who loved deeply. No one would disagree that Jim had an ornery streak in him. As his mom would often say, “Jimmy liked to stir the pot,” which would result in lively exchanges and laughter.

Jim was a loving husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle and son. Jim was preceded in death by his parents James Kessler and Joanne Kessler, his daughter Andrea Kessler, and his brother Bob Kessler. His survivors include his beloved wife Traci Lassiter-Kessler of Webb City, Missouri, his son Rob Kessler of Ennis, Montana, and his sister Patty (Pete) Stoll of Salt Lake City, Utah.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.