Eugene Francis Kessler, 78 of Cedar Rapids and formerly of Solon, died Tuesday, February 9 in his home. Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Marys Catholic Church in Solon. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, at St. Marys Catholic Church. Burial St. Bridgets - Nolan Settlement following the Mass. Brosh Chapel in Solon is in charge of arrangements.

Gene was born February 25, 1931 on a farm near Solon, the son of John and Cecilia Moravek Kessler. He married Donna Kasner and to this union a daughter Judy and a son Gene were born. He farmed in Solon area for many years as well as operated the Legion Lanes in Cedar Rapids . Gene enjoyed to bowl, fix machinery, share his homegrown produce with friends and loved to help people in any need. Gene was active in the development and maintenance of Summit View Homes. He was known for his catchy smile and little laugh.

He is survived by a daughter Judy Mulvihille of Florida, and Gene (Cindy) Kessler of Denver; four grandchildren; a brother Clarence (Cecilia) Kessler of Cedar Rapids; two sisters Dorothy Linnell and Darlene Klouda of Solon; as well as his special little girls Brittani and Cassie Ruhd and their parents Jeff and Karen Ruhd as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister in law Melvin Dorie Kessler, a nephew Gary Kessler, and two brother in laws Charles Linnell and Don Klouda, and also a son in law Jim Mulvihille, and a special companion Marian Ruhd.

Memorials may be directed to the family at 6825 West Iowa Avenue , Lakewood , Colorado , 80232 .