John Kessler

John Kessler, a loving father and law enforcement officer who dedicated his life to fighting crime and defending freedom, passed away Tuesday, September 13 from cancer. He was 69. John was born April 5, 1947 in Tucson to Ruth and Charlie Kessler. He spent much of his youth exploring the Catalina Mountains with his horse and participating in the Tucson Rodeo Parade. He enjoyed playing baseball, a skill which later helped him coach his daughter's softball team. He graduated from the University of Arizona in 1970 with a bachelor's degree in Science and Business Administration and began working for the Tucson Police Department in 1971. He retired as a Sergeant in 1991 and began a new career with the State of Arizona Attorney General's Office where he worked as a Special Agent until his retirement in 2015. In addition to his family, work and strong Catholic faith, John's interests included fishing, camping, golf, John Wayne and a deep respect for the Constitution of the United States of America. In his final days, family and friends surrounded John with love and support. He bravely fought to the end, holding true to his motto of never surrender. He is survived by his daughter, Meghann (Kurt) Knoblock of Tucson, AZ, his brother, Doug (Karen) of San Clemente, CA and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Dusty, and his parents, Ruth (Florence) and Charlie. Services will be held at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 7380 N. Shannon Rd, Friday, November 4 at 11 a.m., followed by Rite of Committal at Holy Hope Cemetery, 3555 N. Oracle Rd. Further celebration of his life continues at Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, 6011 N. Oracle Rd. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's name to Reachout Women's Center, 2648 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719, (520) 321-4300.