Maureen Bodnar Kessler was born June 10, 1940 to James and Naomi (Farmer) Bodnar in Omaha, NE. The oldest of thirteen children, Maureen graduated from Notre Dame Academy in 1958 before attending Creighton University. She left Creighton after two years to marry William “Bill” Kessler on her 21st birthday on June 10, 1961. Maureen spent the early years of married life as a full time mom to her three sons—Eric, Brian, and Craig. She re-entered the workforce in 1974 and worked at a variety of jobs. Her longest tenured jobs were as an optical assistant at Greenberg Optical for Dr. Fisbain and later as an office specialist for Presto-X. Some of Maureen’s favorite activities included going to movies and theater productions, painting, crocheting, knitting, and doing crossword puzzles. She and her husband Bill enjoyed traveling and have been to Greenland, Iceland, England, and France among other locations. She also loved to read and was an active member of a long standing book group. Maureen was also an active member of St. Margaret Mary’s parish and truly loved being part of the church community. She was a person of faith and lived a life showing her love and care for others, especially her family and friends. She loved the time she got to spend with her husband, sons, daughter-in-laws, granddaughters, siblings, and countless friends who impacted her life. She will be remembered most for her beautiful smile, huge heart, and knack for bringing a sense of joy to everyone she encountered. Maureen is survived by her husband of 60 years, William Kessler; sons, Eric (Karen), Brian (Michelle), Craig (Lisa) Kessler; granddaughters Lauren and Kaylee; brothers and sisters Jim (Maureen) Bodnar, Frank (Jan) Bodnar, Betty Johnson, Kathy (Rich) Henningsen, Veronica (John) Rommelfanger, Ruth (Mike) Wieczorek, Mike (Kathy) Bodnar, Susan West, Joe Bodnar, Dick (Diane) Bodnar, Peggy (Steve) Gibbs; as well as countless nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Tom Bodnar. There will be a prayer service on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at 6pm at Braman Mortuary, Omaha (72nd St.) with a visitation starting at 4pm. A celebration of Maureen’s life will be held on Monday, Sept. 13, 2021 at 10:30am at St. Margaret Mary’s Catholic Church (6116 Dodge St.). In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation to your favorite charity in Maureen’s name.
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