Stephen L. Kesselring, aged 57, from Fairport, NY, peacefully passed away on July 7th, 2023, after bravely battling cancer. Stephen, born on June 10, 1966, was the beloved child of Leo and the late Patricia Kesselring.
He graduated from Fairport High School in 1984 and obtained his college degree from Niagara University in 1989. For 14 years, Stephen co-owned a bar/tavern in Rochester, NY. However, when he realized his desire to devote more time to supporting and coaching his children in sports, he made the decision to sell the tavern. He started to work for Jalvo Property, refurbishing homes, giving him the opportunity, which he loved, to work closely with his father, Leo.
Stephen, affectionately known as “Kess,” held his family as his greatest passion and instilled in them the values of hard work and enjoying life. He attended all of Justin and Karlee’s sporting events and traveled extensively to watch his son, Justin, play college lacrosse for Le Moyne. He was also an avid golfer and experienced the thrill of achieving his first hole in one during the Le Moyne lacrosse annual golf tournament last September. Coaching Karlee’s CYO basketball team for two years provided him with a “unique perspective in coaching girls.
Preceding him in death are his mother, Patricia Kesselring, father-in-law, Charles Noonan and very close friend, Thomas W. McGlory. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Kimberley, their son Justin (engaged to Meghan Andre), and daughter Karlee (William Buse). Stephen is also survived by his father, Leo, stepmother Cynthia, sister Susan (Brian) Bell, stepbrother Scott (Laura) Johnson, mother-in-law Marilyn Noonan, sisters-in-law Kristen Bartolotta and Sheryl Noonan, life long friend, Jeff (Krista) McGlory along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests considering a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a charity that held great significance to Stephen.
Funeral Mass Saturday July 15, 2023 1PM at St. John of Rochester 8 Wickford Way, Fairport.
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13 responses to “Kesselring, Stephen L.”
Our thoughts are with you and the “kids”, Kim, at this truly difficult time. Remembering just how much Steve enjoyed life and how he made everyone around him feel that joy, too.
With love, The Kaestles (Krista’s sister and family)
I knew Steve for close to 15 years. We instantly hit it off. Of course, both of us being Dolphin fans really helped. We had the same sense of humor. We both loved going to all of our kids activities and we were both a couple of smart asses. I really appreciate him coming to visit me when I moved south to Charlotte. Having my buddy to go out with meant a lot to me. I’m truly going to miss him, We will always be Fins Up? Rest in peace good buddy.
Even though we knew Steve was suffering greatly and knew his death was coming, we are still in shock. He was young and had so much to live for. He was full of zest and love and so proud of his family. Visiting with Steve always put a smile on our faces because he exuded joy and happiness just to be alive. We miss him as both a neighbor and a friend.
I don’t even know where to start. I’m still in shock you’re gone and I think I’m just numb to the pain. I always refer to you as “the legend” because oh my goodness you made your mark wherever you went. I remember talking to Aunt Kim last Thursday as we all gathered in the hospital to spend time together and share stories. She said one day you went to fairport high school and started talking to the guy who maintains the turf and somehow became best friend with the man. I think because you both liked the dolphins which is a horrible team BTW! This is just one of many examples of how you made friends everywhere you went. Everyone knew who “Kess” was, and although you were sometimes a pain, I don’t think a single person ever had anything bad to say. You were the best role model to me for 27 years and I am forever grateful for you. I promise that your legendary personality and charisma will be carried on through all of the people you impacted. I hope you and dad are having the biggest party up in the sky, miss my dad and you more than anyone could ever know. See you on the other side of the stars Uncle Kess.
We are so saddened to learn of the Steve’s passing. I have many fond memories working with him. Always a smile, always a positive attitude. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Steve loved life, a passion only surpassed by his love of people. Whether a member of his family or someone he met for the first time, Steve understood that relationships are what matters. I am grateful for his friendship with my son Luke, one his son’s teammates through the years, and with me. Our prayers are with Kim, the younger Kess, Karlee, and so many that will miss Steve’s smile and engaging personality.
Dear Leo and Cynthia… we hold you close to our hearts at this time of sadness and grief for your family. May Stephen be welcomed by the angels into his heavenly and joyful home.
Kim, Leo, Justin, Karlee and family…we were so saddened to hear about Steve’s passing. I remember reconnecting with you, Kim, at LeMoyne when I discovered that your son was playing lacrosse there too. Although we were only involved for one year, I truly enjoyed meeting Steve and spending time with you two. He truly was the life of the party, and always made everyone feel welcome. It was easy to hit it off with him almost immediately. He was always the proudest dad and was 100% involved with the kids and everything they did. I’m sure he will be greatly missed, but may his spirit and the memories of his larger-than-life presence always remain with you. Please give my condolences to Leo and the kids, we will certainly keep you in our prayers during this difficult time. God Bless.
I am so sorry that Steve is gone. I remember when he was just a little baby arriving into the family. I definitely saw more of him in his childhood, then in the rest of his life, where mischief was always a gleam in his eye. I’m so glad we had a chance to reconnect in Patti’s last days. I send you all my love and support in this difficult time. I’m so sorry that he has gone on ahead so soon.
Kim and family, so sorry to hear about Steve’s illness & passing. I met Steve at Niagara University through Brian M. our freshman year. He made me laugh the first time I met him. What a great guy!! Then I met Kim during our early years at Paychex in the early 90’s. Not too long ago he & Kim were sitting next to me as we ALL were getting pedicures. He made me laugh the entire hour. He loved people, his family & his community. He will be missed. Truly, Marcy
Hello Leo and Cindy and Susan; I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bob and Patty Boothby
Hello Leo and Cindy and Susan.
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob and Patty Boothby
The man with the smile. It never was not on his face. The attitude and voice came with it. It has been a long time, but his example on how he lived said it all to me. He will surely be missed, but his person will never be forgotten.