Barbara Jane Kessler

Barbara Kessler, 62, Moorhead, MN, formerly of Wolverton, MN, passed away Monday, June 30, 2014, in Sanford Health Palliative Care, Fargo, ND.

Barbara Jane Pardino was born on July 27, 1951, to Dominic and Regina (Hemmerling) Pardino, in Moorhead. Barb, the youngest of four children, grew up in Dilworth, MN, and graduated from Dilworth High School. On Valentine's Day, 1969, Barb married Gordon "Gordy" Kessler, in Harvey, ND. They made their home in Wolverton in 1972, and raised their children on the hobby farm.

Barb was very active in her children's activities, joining both the local 4-H and riding clubs. Even though she knew very little about horses; she did learn to care for them. She was a wonderful wife, homemaker, and cook. When the children were old enough, Barb worked as an assistant chef at Victoria's Restaurant in Wolverton.

In 1994, when her health began to decline, Barb moved into Moorhead. She was devoted to her parents and worked at various jobs in town. She enjoyed her dogs, going out to eat, and shopping.

Barb is survived by her husband of over 45 years, Gordon; children, Jodi (Paul McKibben) Kessler and Brent Kessler; grandchildren, Alexandra "Ally" Meland, and Mercedes and Forrest McKibben; and brothers, Frank Pardino and Dominic "Dino" Pardino Jr.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Cathie Swenson.

Visitation: One hour prior to service. Memorial Service: Monday, July 7, 2014, at 2:00 PM, in Korsmo Funeral Chapel, Moorhead. Burial: St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery, Moorhead.