Freddie C. Kessel
October 22,1931 - July 23, 2025
93 years, 9 months, 1 day
Depending on how you knew him...Freddie, Fred or Chuck, Dad, brother, Grandpa or friend... his humble journey began in Ava, IL. He was the first child to parents Mary Ethel and Herbert Hadley Kessel, both deceased.  Our mother, Lois Jean, Freddie's wife of 50 years, ascended into Jesus' arms in 2009. His sisters Ella (Toots) Guetersloh, Ruby Bush and Grace Kessel all paved the way for Freddie to make it to heaven.
Freddie is survived by his loving daughters Gail Ann Felty, Judith Annette Kessel and Connie Jean (Scott) Bair. Survived by his grandchildren - Joey Sminchak, Lindsey Sminchak, David Steele, Dallas Bair — & great-grandchildren Via Belle & Luca James Casagrande. He is also survived by his youngest sister, Billie Ruth Kessel.  Freddie also had many caring nieces and nephews.   Also survived by his spouse, Sarah Jane Bryan and his longtime friend, Fred Soens.
Freddie placed value on family, and sure liked to make people laugh.  His expressions - priceless. His teasing and joking were so much fun. His smile lit up those around him.  Freddie did not know a stranger; he could and would talk to anyone.
Freddie proudly served in the Navy during the Korean War.
He made his way to Ferguson, Missouri where he was introduced to Lois Jean and married her soon after in San Diego, CA in 1958.
Freddie worked for McDonnell Douglas, drove a school bus and drove an oil tanker truck for Amoco British Petroleum for 26 years until 1994.
Freddie's passion was anything on wheels.  He adored the road and loved to drive as evidenced by his many road trips, mention of mile markers and landmarks.  Those roads took him to many loved restaurants, tractor shows and to visit family and friends.  You could catch him on a Sunday watching NASCAR. Can't forget his mower, he enjoyed and took pride in keeping his lawn just so.  He performed his own maintenance on that mower up until his stroke last year.  He also enjoyed barbecuing or using the smoker.  Freddie sure enjoyed food and sharing it with others.
Freddie's work ethic was unstoppable.  He took pride in doing things the right way, he thought very methodically.  He was also mechanically inclined. He could pack a car or moving truck like no other.
Our memories live on...he will be missed
Graveside service Friday, August 8, 2025 11 a.m.  Evergreen Cemetery, Ava, IL 62907
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Heart Association
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