Dayton KESSLER

KESSLER, SAATOFF, KENNEDY, MADSON

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 6/25/2012 at 21:38:46

July 31, 1913 --- May 18, 2012

Urbandale, IA --- Dayton Kessler, 98, passed away on May 18, 2012 at Taylor House in Des Moines. Dayton was the son of John and Verbena (Saatoff) Kessler. He was born on July 31, 1913 in Belmond, Iowa. He graduated from Belmond High School and then attended Iowa State University in Ames, where he majored in Engineering and Dairy Industry. He was employed at the Polk County Dairy Association while attending college. Dayton worked at the Ordnance Plant in Ankeny, IA, Wood Brothers, and the Ford Implement Company. He then moved to an engineering position at Delavan Manufacturing Company in West Des Moines. Delavan manufactured spaying equipment, the famous jet aircraft nozzle and the hydraulic pump. Delavan was always interested in new products in the engineering design field. While at Delavan, Dayton worked on a hydraulic pump which received a patent in Washington, D.C. He retired from Delavan after 25 years of employment in 1978.

Dayton married Louise Kennedy on August 13, 1941. They lived in Highland Park, then moved to Urbandale in 1945. They were blessed with three daughters, Linda, Donna and Karen Becky. Dayton was known for his big garden. He grew at least 80 tomato plants, sweet corn, potatoes, etc. He generously gave most away to his relatives and neighbors.

He leaves to cherish his memory, daughters, Linda Madson of Ankeny, Donna Kessler and Karen Becky Kessler both of Urbandale and grandson, Jay Madson of Ankeny. Dayton was preceded in death by his wife, Louise (October 21, 2009); his parents and three brothers, Henry, Gordon and twin brother, Dale.

Visitation for Dayton will be held from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at Iles Funeral Homes-Westover Chapel. Graveside services will follow at 3 p.m. at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines. Those wishing to express their sympathies through a memorial may direct their gifts to the immediate family, to be given to of their choice.

Des Moines Register - Iowa
May 21, 2012