Gerald Carl Kesler

Gerald (“Jerry”) Carl Kesler

July 1, 1941 – February 1, 2025

Gerald “Jerry” Carl Kesler passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025, in Canal Fulton, Ohio. Born on July 1, 1941, in East Chicago, Indiana, Jerry lived a life full of love, dedication, and joy.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Weldon and Carlyn Kesler, and his siblings Gloria and Bill. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 49 years, Pamela Kesler; his children, Barbara, Jennifer, Michael, and Emily Kesler; his son-in-law, Andre Flores; and his cherished grandson, Logan Flores. He also leaves a large and loving extended family.

Jerry grew up in Griffith, Indiana, where he played creative games with his friends, including telephone with string and tin cans, strung between two neighboring houses. He frequently made trips to Chicago to explore and experience the city, always eager for new adventures. In high school, Jerry was awarded the Arion Award for outstanding achievements in band, which led him to study music at the University of Iowa. There, he proudly led the university's marching band as the drum major and focused on playing the oboe, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. Jerry shared his love for music by providing lessons during and after college, and remained a huge fan of college marching bands throughout his life.

After graduation, Jerry began a career in retail management. Jerry had two children, Barbara and Jennifer, from his first marriage. He moved to Milwaukee, where he met his wife, Pam, while they managed retail stores next door to each other.

Jerry and Pam settled in Canal Fulton, Ohio, where they raised Michael and Emily. Jerry was a member of the Akron Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. He loved bringing home animals for his family, often to Pam’s surprise. He founded and ran his own business, Forever Green, specializing in interior plantscaping, which he operated until his retirement in 2020. Jerry also maintained a network of candy vending machines, always ensuring a full candy stock for his kids.

Jerry had a creative flair, and he was extremely generous. He loved to shower his family with gifts, especially at Christmas. Jerry was a man of many passions. He loved creating stained glass art, enjoyed music and concerts, adored animals, and had a fondness for free samples, horror movies, and comedy. He was even dubbed "the metal king" by comedian Jim Breuer at a 2019 Metallica concert he attended with his son. Jerry was known for his tall tales, and, besides spending time with Pam, his children and grandson, his greatest joy in life was making others laugh, often inserting jokes into conversations. His warmth, humor, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Per Jerry’s wishes, there will be no services at this time. A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to One of a Kind Pet Rescue, https://www.oneofakindpets.com/make-a-difference/ , JJs Ruff Roads, https://secure.givelively.org/donate/jjs-ruff-roads-inc, or the charity of your choice.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Rd. Akron, OH 44333.