10/24/2025
In Loving Memory of Carl Raymond Gessler
Carl Raymond Gessler, 91, beloved father, brother, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at home on October 18th, 2025.
Born on April 12th, 1934, Carl grew up in North Hill and thereafter became a lifelong resident of Tallmadge, Ohio. He graduated from St. Vincent High School in 1953 started college at Kent State University. In 1954, he was drafted into the communications division of the US Army. Upon his discharge, he returned to Kent State and obtained a B.A. Degree in Industrial Management in 1958.
In 1961 Carl began his career in the insurance industry with Crawford and Company. He spent many years as a claims professional. During his career, he enjoyed a very successful position as the Claims Manager of a large public company. He truly excelled in this role and served as a mentor to many others, including his colleagues, Howard and Nick, with whom he enjoyed a very close relationship, beyond his retirement in 1993. Carl traveled throughout the country and particularly enjoyed when Nick and Howard joined him. They played on many beautiful golf courses, having fun and creating many memories. Carl was loved by his clients for his knowledge, humor, wit, and his uncanny ability to get along with everyone. From the CFO, and attorneys, to the front-line workers, Carl was at ease. Carl implemented original programs that were so successful, they are still used today.
After his retirement, Carl could be found any number of places: on the Towpath Trail riding his bike, playing cards, going to the casino, with his siblings, attending Mass at St. Bernard's Church, working out at the Natatorium, or on the golf course with his vast group of golf friends. He and his friends enjoyed yearly golf trips and weekly golf outings, creating memories, having laughs, and fine tuning their golf games. The family extends a special thanks to these men for their years of companionship, caring and fun. Carl loved you all very much. He was especially close with Pat Carter whom he missed after his passing.
Carl was also an avid reader and had a passion for American History. He and his brother Father James enjoyed many lively discussions about politics, current events, and religion and history. They were regulars at Barnes and Noble, along with their sisters Pat and Peggy.
Carl was dedicated to staying fit and active after his retirement, with his lifelong love of raw vegetables as a staple of his diet. He also loved his hometown favorites, Luigis and Swenson's, which he introduced to many work colleagues.
Carl was above all else a dedicated father and grandfather. His children were his priority, and he provided them with stability, love, understanding and most importantly, his time. Through good times and bad, Carl gave his support, encouragement and love, guiding his children through the ups and downs of their lives. He was a shining example of the selfless love and sacrifices a father makes for his children.
Carl was preceded in death by his mother, Nell; father, August; brothers, Leo, Dale (Martha), sisters, Mary Jo (Bob), Kathleen (George); brother-in-law, Fred; nephew, Paul; and ex-wife, Joyce.
He leaves behind his daughter, Tonya Gessler; son, Michael Gessler (Bree); daughter, Michelle Rodriquez (John); and grandchildren, Nicholas Gessler (Becky), Gabrielle Rodriquez, Natalee Rodriquez; and great granddaughter, Lana Gessler.
He also leaves behind his wonderful siblings, Father James Gessler, Peggy Lombardi, and Pat Post, and many nephews and nieces. The Gessler siblings are a unique people who show great love, dignity, perseverance and loyalty in the face of life's many challenges. They have supported each other throughout their lives and have a very special bond.
Carl spent countless sunrises on the fairway, chasing birdies and building life long friendships-one swing at a time-until teeing off for his final perfect round in heaven. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be Friday October 31, 2025 from 4-7 pm at Donovan Funeral Home, 17 Southwest Ave, (On the Historic Tallmadge Circle).
Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, November 1st, at 10:00 AM, at St. Bernard Parish, 44 University Ave, Akron, Ohio.
Interment will be at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery the following week, date undetermined at this time.
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