Debra Joan Kessler

Debra Joan Kessler, 61, of Fort Wayne died unexpectedly at home on June 27, 2020. She was a daughter of the late Junior and Joan Applegate. Deb was born on July 11, 1958 in Fort Wayne and grew up in Harlan, Indiana. She was a member of Saint Jude Catholic Church. Early on she spent the majority of her time in tax preparation with H.R. Block. Later, she was the owner of several Liberty Tax Service offices in the Fort Wayne area. After “retirement” you could catch her doing personal tax preparation along side of her daughter at Family Tax. Deb married the love of her life Joe Kessler II on June 30, 1984; he survives. Deb has left behind a heartbroken family that includes: daughter Tricia (Sarah) Hook, son Joe Kessler III, and grandson Maximus Vardaman, all of Fort Wayne; sisters Cheryl (James) Szink of Fort Wayne, and Linda (Bruce) Sacks of Euless Texas; father-in-law Joseph W. Kessler Sr. ; sister-in-law Liz (Norb)Nagel and brother-in-law Phil (Donna) Kessler; niece Lauren (Alfredo) Perez and nephews  Zachary Nagel of Fort Wayne and Scott Sacks of Euless Texas; one great nephew Cristian Perez and one great niece Morgan Sacks; and her faithful dog and youngest “child” Buddy. She was excitedly awaiting the birth of her second great niece in July.   Deb was preceded in death by her parents and mother-in-law Helen Kessler. Deb enjoyed and supported her  family and friends through every endeavor. She was an animal lover and an IU fan. Deb also loved family vacations, gatherings and just spending time with her children. Her absence in our family will be felt for many generations to come.

“Deb loved fiercely and was a great protector of those she loved; she never hesitated when someone was in need. Her huge heart just couldn’t keep up with her giving soul.” 

Please note that face masks are required at the funeral home and the church. Please practice social distancing. Thank you. 

Visitation will be held Monday, July 6, 2020, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 7, 2020 at Saint Jude Catholic Church, 2130 Pemberton Drive with calling one hour prior. Burial will be in the Catholic Cemetery. In support of her grandson Max, memorial contributions may be made to the Fort Wayne Children’s Choir (in care of Tricia Hook) or the Allen County S.P.C.A.. To sign the online guest book, go to http://www.divinemercyfuneralhome.com