Ruben Earnest Kessler, 77, of Brighton, Missouri, passed away at his home on March 1, 2024. Ruben was born on the same farm on December 21, 1946, to Henry and Margrete (Earls) Kessler. He was a 1965 graduate of Pleasant Hope High School. After high school, Ruben joined the United States Air Force and served two tours in Vietnam.

Ruben was a diesel mechanic and worked for Roadway for 30 years. Ruben also had many “jobs” outside of work. He built many homes in Pleasant Hope, he was an avid woodworker, always had a big vegetable garden. Ruben loved his farm and working on it. He enjoyed trail riding and going camping in his teepee. Ruben traveled all across the United States in dually with his family in tow. He loved his grandkids and his family.

Ruben is preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers: Ronnie, Rocky, Roy, and Rex.

He is survived by his children: John Wayne Kessler, Tamitha Renee (Kessler) Mueller, and James Lee Kessler (Lisa); grandchildren: Brittany, Gabby, Vanessa, Brittany, Shyloh, Caitlin, Shaelyn, Holden, Zachery, Bailey, Alisha, and McKenzie; 15 great grandchildren; siblings: Robert Kessler, Rosie Ashley, Russell Kessler, Roberta Nash, and Rick Kessler; Carol Kessler; Judy Kessler, and many other family and friends.

A visitation for Ruben will be held at Pitts Chapel in Bolivar, Missouri, on Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will take place on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Pitts Chapel. Interment will follow at Brighton Cemetery in Brighton, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project. Wounded Warrior Project – Donate