Walter Kessler

KESSLER, Walter H., age 89, lifelong resident of Tampa died Sunday, August 7, 2016. Mr. Kessler served in both the US Navy and later US Army Reserves and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School) with a bachelor's degree in economics. He later earned a business administration degree from the University of Tampa. Professionally he was a CPA, and during his professional career served as president of Weil-Maas, Inc., and was the owner of the Viola Todd clothing store. He was a member of Congregation Schaarai Zedek which was formed in 1894 in the home of his grandfather. Kessler served as president of the congregation from 1971-73. He was committed to many other religious, civic and fraternal organizations, and devoted tireless dedication to many facets of Tampa's Jewish community, including the Jewish Federation where he served as president and campaign chair, as well as overseeing many underlying agencies. He was the recipient of the Tampa Bay Silver Medallion Humanitarian Award in 1990, and the JCC/ Federation Leo Levinson Memorial Award for Leadership Excellence in 2008. He was an active and committed member of Egypt Temple Shrine since 1956, and served as Potentate in 1973; an avid horseback rider, he also served as a member, officer and director of the Egypt Temple Shrine Horse Patrol for many years. He was a member of the USF President's Council and life member of the Minaret Society of the University of Tampa; and was a member of the Krewe of Venus, where he served as King in 1978-79. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 40 years, Leonore. He is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Robert (Bob) & Robyn Kessler and Lawrence (Larry) & Elizabeth Kessler, daughter and son-in-law, Susan Kessler & Jeffrey Berger and grandchildren, Jennifer, Beth, Alex, David and Sarah. Funeral services will be held today (Tuesday), 2:00 PM at Congregation Schaarai Zedek, 3303 West Swann Avenue, Tampa. Interment will follow at Myrtle Hill Memorial Park. There will be a Shiva service at 7:00 Tuesday evening at Congregation Schaarai Zedek. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to any of the organizations that Walter supported through his efforts as a living memorial.