Chinook, MT

After a long illness, Philip Paul Kessel passed away at home, surrounded by loved ones on April 25th, 2016. He was born in Havre, MT on May 11, 1949 to Philip Russel Kessel and Linda (Ernst) Kessel. Paul, as he was called by family, was raised in Chinook, MT with his six siblings. He learned the value of hard work at a very young age as he worked alongside his family members on their father's cattle ranch and farm. He later started Kessel Construction and built grain bins and steel buildings all over the state of Montana. In the early 80's he spent time in Africa and Australia, welding on offshore oil rigs. He was industrious and loved to dream up things that he could build or find ways to fix things.

On April 17, 1971, he married Elda Louise Farlow. They had three sons, Everett, Dustin, and Jason. Paul and Elda divorced in 1986. Paul enjoyed teaching his boys how to work; he thought that was "fun". He also enjoyed spending many years working in construction with his brothers.

Paul spent the last 11 years of his life living in Waitsburg, WA, where he become known to many as "Pa Kessel". He still called Chinook home and he made sure he made it back there for extended visits with family and friends.

Paul's granddaughters affectionately called him "Boo boo grandpa". They brought him much comfort and joy during his illness. He was very proud of them and made efforts to attend preschool and kindergarten graduations even though it was tough for him. He enjoyed reading with them and tugging on their braids.

Paul is survived by sons and their families: Everett and Ginger Kessel and their daughter, Adalie (Waitsburg, WA); Dustin and Memory Kessel and their children, Hedy, Kaia, and Trenton (Billings, MT); and Jason Kessel (Portland, OR); brothers, Ronny Kessel and Keith Kessel; sisters, Marlene Hanson, Faye Amor, Bonny Kessel, and Judy Saxton. He is also survived by his father's second wife, Dorothy Kessel, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by both his parents and a sister, Beverly Kessel.

Paul loved planting trees and watching them grow. His hope was that his kids and grandkids would think of him when looking at the trees he planted. There will not be a service but those wishing to do something in his memory may plant a tree. A special thanks to his sisters and brothers for helping him during his illness and making it possible for him to be at home.

A00013B2016AR25