Marianne was born on June 12, 1933, and passed away peacefully on July 4, 2023. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Marianne was born in Kansas City, Missouri, to Rose Gilgus Katz and Louis Katz. Marianne married her high school sweetheart, Mason Kessler, and they were married for 67 years before his passing. After she graduated from Paseo High School, Marianne attended Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, where she earned a business degree.
When Marianne's children were in school, she volunteered for many activities. When her children got older, she began teaching at numerous preschools, but she especially loved teaching at the Jewish Community Center on Holmes Road.
Marianne was preceded in death by her brothers, Stanley, Harold, and Marvin Katz. She is survived by her children, Louis (Marilyn) Kessler, Debbie (Mike) Shapiro, and Alan (Debra) Kessler; grandchildren, Scott and Bradley Kessler, Ben (Kacey) Shapiro, Ryan Shapiro, and Jacob and Addison Kessler; and great-grandchildren, Baylee Kessler and Benny Shapiro. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Marlene Katz.
Graveside services were held on Sunday, July 9, at Kehilath Israel Blue Ridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Stroke Society or American Stroke Foundation.
