William E. Kessler, born August 24, 1929 in Jacksonville, Florida departed this earth on Wednesday, January 30, 2013 after a long courageous battle with cancer. William is a 1947 graduate from Tippecanoe High School. He was married to Betty Jean Wick on October 7, 1950. He served in the US Air Force during the Korean War. After which he worked weekends with Paul Shearer doing masonry work while hitch hiking back and forth from Ohio State University where he obtained his law degree. Many positions held during his law career were Prosecutor for Tipp City, Miami County Prosecutor, Miami County Common Pleas Judge and was the First Municipal Court Judge in Miami County. He was a long standing member with the American Legion Post 586 (Past Commander, Judge Advocate), Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2201, International Order of Odd Fellows and a member of board with Hospice of Miami County. "Bill" also served as Judge Advocate for the State of Ohio American Legion and was an active member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Tipp City. He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl D. Kessler, Sr., Catherine Bohlender Kessler, brothers; Carl D. Kessler, Jr., Donald E. Kessler, James B. Kessler and his loving wife of nearly 57 years, Betty. Survived by brother and sister-in-law Richard and Betty Kessler of New Carlisle, 3 children, Charles, William and Cheryl of Tipp City, 13 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, sundries of nieces and nephews and extended Canadian friends/family. Known for his colorful euphemisms, walking about town, homemade cookies and rice crispy treats (Kessler Krispies) along with his great love of his family and fishing in Canada. He was loved and will be missed by many. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, February 4, 2013 at Zion Lutheran Church, Tipp City, Pastor Kristen Zimmann officiating. Family will receive friends from 3:00 to 7:00 PM on Sunday at the church and one hour prior to the service on Monday. Services have been entrusted to FRINGS AND BAYLIFF FUNERAL HOME, 327 W. Main St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371. www.fringsandbayliff.com In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to Hospice of Miami County.