Clear, 33° F
(Jan. 10, 2006)
Rudolph (Rudy) Kessel, 82, died Jan. 10 at the North Big Horn Hospital in Lovell.
He was born Jan.17, 1923, in Broadview, Mont., the seventh child of Christian and Katharina (Klotz) Kessel. He spent his early years in Montana, working on the family farm and working as a farmhand. In January of 1943 he entered the Army Air Force and trained as an airplane and engine electrical repairman. He was proud of the contribution he made to the war effort.
After his World War II service, he returned to Montana where he met and married Leontina Knopp on Sept. 28, 1947.
Nearly three years later they were blessed with a son, Terry. The family moved to Powell in 1950 so that Rudy could work for his brother, John, at Kessel's OK Tire store. In 1954, a daughter, Peggy, was added to the family.
In the mid-1960's Rudy purchased his own tire business in Lovell. He owned the business until the late ‘70s, at which time he returned to Powell to work at Kessel's OK Tire store .
As a younger man, he was actively involved in the Powell Eagles Lodge, holding several offices including president. He also was involved in the Rod and Gun Club. Rudy enjoyed hunting and fishing. He shared many stories with friends and family of his outdoor adventures.
He loved anything that had to do with horses and ranching.He prided himself on the fact that he helped break a horse at the age of 80. Even though he had many occupations during his life, he always thought of himself as a cowboy.
Memorial services were held Jan. 14 at the Garland Community Church under the direction of Thompson Funeral Home.
