Steven M. Kessel, 71, Belfield, died Saturday, January 22, 2011 at St. Alexius Medical Center, Bismarck. Steve’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Friday, January 28, 2011 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Belfield with Fr. Shannon Lucht as the celebrant and assisted by Deacon Al Schwindt. Visitation will be on Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson, and will continue at the church from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a rosary & vigil at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue on Friday one hour prior to services at the church.
Steven was born February 18, 1939 in Dickinson, to Frank and Mathilda (Hutzenbiler) Kessel. Steven was raised in Belfield while attending Belfield Public School.
In 1961, Steven met his wife Elaine Babeck and they were married, October 23, 1962. During their 48 years of marriage they were blessed with three wonderful children, Craig, Stacie, and Kristina.
Steven spent most of his career working in the oilfield for 30 years. He held various positions including seismography, operating heavy equipment, and most recently at L. P. Anderson for many years bidding and overseeing the development of oil site locations. Outside of work, Steven also held positions in the community serving on the St. Bernard’s School Board, Belfield City Council and volunteering as an ambulance driver for the city of Belfield.
Steven fully enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren. He enjoyed his morning coffee with friends, listening to polka music, and playing cards. His quick wit, laughter, and love to visit with people made a lasting impression for everyone he met throughout the years. In his later years, it was rare for a day to pass where Steven missed Gunsmoke, and many episodes on HGTV, his favorite channel. Even though he suffered for many years with illness, he had the patience and perseverance to stay strong and never lose hope. His energy and tender spirit was inspiring to all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife Elaine, Belfield; three children, Craig (Anna) Kessel, Federal Way, Wash., Stacie (Gregg) Fremont, Maple Valley, Wash., and Kristina, Seattle, Wash.; six grandchildren, Sarah, Matthew, Michael, Hannah and Amara Kessel and Noah Fremont; seven siblings, Paul (Mildred) Kessel, Pat (Shirley) Kessel, Dave Kessel, Albert (Anita) Kessel, Ann Staley, Leo (Patti) Kessel, and Betty (Dennis) Foy. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Frank and Mathilda and his best friend Ed Kordonowy.
In lieu of flowers the family has established a Steven M. Kessel Benefit Memorial Fund c/o Elaine Kessel set up at the Wells Fargo Bank.
