Hans A. Kessler

Mr. Kessler, 97, of Lakewood, died Dec. 22, 2007, at Harrogate Health Center, Lakewood. Born in Germany, he relocated to the United States at age 15 months and resided in Indiana, Texas and Middletown before moving to Lakewood in 1995. He was employed by the Department of Institutions and Agencies from 1946 until his retirement in 1973. Prior to that, he served with the New Jersey National Guard from 1928 to 1946. He entered active duty as a lieutenant with the 112th Field Artillery and served as a battery commander in Gen. George Patton's 3rd Army until he was transferred to the 9th Army in Germany. Following reactivation of the National Guard in 1947, he served as the commanding officer for several years at the 644 Tank Battalion, Red Bank. His memberships included American Legion Post 168 and Elks Lodge 233, both Red Bank; and the Retired Officers Association, Fort Monmouth, Eatontown. He was predeceased by his wife of 72 years, Nan Hawley Kessler. He is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Jean and Tom Broeck of Jupiter, Fla.; a son, John R. Kessler of Mountain Lakes; two granddaughters; and four great-grandchildren. Burial was at Fair View Cemetery, Middletown. Arrangements were by John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, Middletown.