Morton Kessler, 89

Brian Glantz

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Morton (Mort) H. Kessler of Providence passed away on Feb. 2, 2022. After several months of declining health, he died peacefully with his children by his side. Mort was born in Providence on Sept. 23, 1932, the son of Jacob and Sarah (Feldman) Kessler.

In his formative years, Mort was a poultry raiser, buyer and breeder, as well as a trombone player. Growing vegetables was a lifelong passion, and he enjoyed gifting family and friends with tomatoes and homemade pickles. If you were lucky enough, you would also be gifted with his famous hermit cookies. Later in life, Mort bred and raised poodles.

As a proud member of the Army, he served overseas during the Korean War. Upon completion of his military service, Mort worked for both of his family’s businesses: Kessler’s Bakery and Ma Kessler’s Delicatessen. He was a Master Chef and baker, using his skills and experience as a chef instructor at William Davies Career Technical School in Lincoln.

He attended the University of Rhode Island, Bryant College and Rhode Island College.

Mort was a member of Overseas Lodge #40 F&AM, Consistory Scottish Rite Valley of Providence, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Palestine Temple, Touro Fraternal Association, University Society of Providence, Parents Without Partners – Providence Chapter, AARP and Jewish War Veterans – Rhode Island Post 23.

Mort is survived by his sister Rosalie Buckler of Providence; former spouse Elaine (Segal) Silva and their four children, Barry Kessler and his wife Vicky Kessler, of Barrington; Wayne Kessler and his wife Karen Meginsky, of Westwood, Massachusetts; Rhonda Kessler (retired PPD) and her husband Keith Tucker, of Smithfield; Lori Krawetz and her husband Edward, of Lincoln; eight grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, cousins and long-time friends.

Contributions can be made to the Jewish Alliance of Greater RI, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906 or Jewish War Veterans Wall Memorial Fund, PO Box 100064, Cranston, RI 02910.