FRANKLIN COUNTY – William, “Bill” or Buddy Kesler.
June 11, 1941-August 27, 2025.
To Know Him Is To Love Him.
Bill was born on June 11, 1941, raised in Christopher, IL, graduated from Christopher High School, and attended Southern Illinois University. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Stella Kesler, and his daughter, Beth. He loved God and his neighbor; he set a good example for all the world.
He married Janet (Hicks) Kesler in 1962, was blessed with a beautiful baby girl in 1964, Beth Ellen, and then in 1966, they were blessed with an adorable baby boy, Bradford Blaine.
He was a very caring husband to his wife, Janet, for 62 years; she was the love of his life, as he put her needs before his; a true love story of a couple that stuck together through it all.
Bill worked as a bunny bread salesman for 30 years. Bill had a “dad joke” and a smile for everyone he met, along with a very calming presence.
Bill was a loving son, husband, father, and doting grandfather. He was like a father to his daughter-in-law, Brad’s wife, Angie. His greatest contribution was his 3 grandsons, Logan, Carter, and Gavin. They were his pride and joy. He also loved and was proud of his grandson’s fiancé, Paige Lane, soon to be Paige Kesler, on 9/6/2025.
Bill had a deep love and respect for nature. He took the time to appreciate watching the birds, squirrels, deer, or any creature that roamed the earth. An avid hunter, he enjoyed hunting with his brother-in-law and dear friend, Ronnie Hicks.
Bill loved learning new things and was able to figure out or repair anything. Bill enjoyed his iPad and iPhone and was well-versed with the new technology for a man of his age.
No need for flowers, instead take a walk in the woods or take in the beauty of this earth while thinking of Bill or better yet, have a “Bill Kesler 2 beer special” (which was, chug the first beer then savor the second beer while your wife thinks you are only just having one) then tell a “dad joke” to a friend or a stranger to make them smile, just like Bill would do.
Rest in peace, Buddy.
Graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday September 3, 2025, at the Maple Hill Cemetery, Sesser, IL with Father Urban Osuji officiating. Friends and family are asked to meet at the Cemetery.
For more information go to our website at www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com.
