Michael Steven Kessler, December 26, 1938 – June 28, 2008
Surrounded by his wife and children, Michael passed away peacefully on June 28, 2008.
Active in real estate in the Colorado Springs area, Michael was born and raised in New York City, New York. He obtained an undergraduate degree from The University of Florida where he instantly became a lifelong “Gator fanatic.” He completed his Master’s Degree from Washington University in St. Louis where he was a former Head Tennis and Soccer Coach.
In 1973 Michael moved to Colorado Springs as the Director of Development for UCCS, former President of the Colorado Springs Adult Chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and served as co-founder and President of the Colorado Ice Hockey Referees’ Association.
Michael had a passion for men ministries including racial reconciliation, leadership, and accountability as demonstrated in his involvement with the development of The Promise Keepers. God enabled him to use his amazing gifts, talents and abilities to lead men to Christ, and encourage them in their walk with Christ. Michael was unconditional in his acceptance of all men and used his passion for sports and the outdoors to minister to others to stand in the gap for other people, praying, encouraging, supporting with his time and his reflective life experiences.
Michael is survived by his loving wife Monica, son Andrew, daughter Stephanie Marshburn and her husband Todd, and two grandchildren, Ben and Hailey, and an abundance of deep abiding friendships.
Living in California, i would get out to colorado springs once or twice a year to visit my brother. I was lucky enough to be invited to a few men’s breakfasts with Michael and my brother Todd. Michael was always fun to talk to and very interested in my life in California, occasionally teasing me about the craziness of Hollywood. He always made me feel welcome. He had a very warm spirit and loving heart. My brother always spoke highly about him and his biking accomplishments. I know he will be missed at those early morning gatherings. I hope Heaven has a long stretch of country road and breakfast waiting at the end.
with warm regards,
Grant Taskerud
Hi Monica & Drew and Stephanie ( who I never met),
I was sorry to hear of your loss. We have been keeping you in our prayers.
In looking at the pictures on this website I regret never having the opportunity to have gone biking or hiking with Mike. My visits to the Springs usually revolve around parties at the Biggers. I recently purchased a new racing bike and I’ll be thinking about Mike the next time I’m grinding up a big hill.
Mike made a commitment to ministering men. He did so with non judgement and a kind heart. But he was also a warriror when it came to accountability. HIS light shined through Mike Kessler. We will miss him.
A real GATOR he was as Mike was Capt of my 1961 Florida Soccer Club that went 12-0-0- !!!!!!!!!!and I was proud to help him get the position of Soccer & Tennis Coach at Washington Univ {St Louis} Ride on my friend bike & play a little soccer with that great smile on your face!!!!!!!!!!! Coach “AC”
I will always remember Mike for his kindness, interest in other people and his positive outlook in life. The real estate industry will miss him greatly! We are so sorry to hear of your loss.
Connie and Curt Christofferson