The sad news comes that Tim Kessler, 66, passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2023.
Kessler was a prominent businessman in Aberdeen, where for years he owned and operated his family grocery store, Kessler’s.
South Dakota is built upon the public service of civic-minded leaders who give back to their communities, and there is no better example than Tim Kessler.
He became involved with state politics when he supported Gov. George S. Mickelson, and he was a friend to every governor since.
He was a longtime member of the Game Fish and Parks Commission, where he brought his considerable talents to a cause he cared about deeply, the conservation of South Dakota’s outdoors for the enjoyment of our people. He also advanced that cause as the national president of Pheasants Forever.
It was at Kessler’s urging that Gov. Dennis Daugaard created a task force to address falling pheasant numbers in 2014; the work was an important precursor to Gov. Kristi Noem’s Second Century Habitat Fund, which has expanded on that work.
Kessler was a member of the Board of Economic Development. He also served on the board of the Great Plains Foundation, which has had a huge impact on education in South Dakota, especially at Northern State University in Aberdeen. And that was in addition to his personal charity and significant involvement in the Aberdeen community.
On a personal note, Tim was kind enough to host me several times for pheasant hunts, even letting me think I’d hit a bird when I’m pretty sure he got it for me. He was always a good friend, ready to help when needed, and I will miss him.
Tim had battled health issues for years but his loss still seems sudden and will be deeply felt by many, especially his wife Amy and their sons Reed, Rob, JD and their families. His passing so soon before the pheasant opener is particularly bittersweet, but I’m sure there are many people, including me, who will never participate in South Dakota’s fall tradition without pausing to remember, and to thank, Tim Kessler.
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