Fred Kenneth Kessel Obituary: Lakewood Resident and Retired Agricultural Plant Manager Remembered at 78

 Fred Kenneth Kessel, 78, of Lakewood, Illinois, passed away on October 25, 2026. Remember his career in agricultural operations, devotion to family, and lasting legacy.

Fred Kenneth Kessel’s Life and Legacy in Lakewood, Illinois

Fred Kenneth Kessel, 78, of Lakewood, Illinois, passed away at 9:19 p.m. on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. His passing leaves family members and friends mourning a man whose life reflected dedication to his loved ones, a long professional career, and meaningful community connections.

Born on February 14, 1948, in Shelbyville, Illinois, Fred was the son of Burl Kenneth Kessel and Marjorie Moreen Plowman Kessel. He graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1966 and participated in the Future Farmers of America, an organization that continued to hold significance throughout his life.

A Career in Agricultural Operations and Plant Management

Fred built a career in agricultural and industrial operations, gaining experience across several organizations. He served as plant manager for Nutrien Ag Solutions in Shelbyville before retiring. His professional background also included positions with Hydro-Gear in Sullivan, So-Hi Grow, PC Ltd., and Okaw Crop Care.

Through years of work and responsibility, Fred established a professional legacy connected to the agricultural industry and the communities where he worked.

Outside his career, he enjoyed playing golf with friends. Time on the course offered opportunities to relax, strengthen friendships, and enjoy the companionship that enriched his life.

Fred Kessel’s Family and Loved Ones

Family remained central to Fred’s life. He married Sandra Kay Winings on December 28, 1967, and together they raised three children: Deanna, Debra, and Mathew. Sandra preceded him in death on October 20, 2024.

Fred is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren, step-great-granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews. His surviving family includes daughters Deanna Collier and Debra Snyder, son Mathew Kessel, and their respective spouses.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sandra, brother David Kessel, sisters Judy Johnson and Ruth Riley, and nephew Larry Johnson.

Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Contributions

Private family services will be held, with burial at Glenwood Cemetery in Shelbyville. Howe and Yockey Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Those wishing to honor Fred’s memory may contribute to the Shelbyville Chapter of the Future Farmers of America through the funeral home.

Fred Kenneth Kessel will be remembered for his devotion to family, professional commitment, and friendships that remained an important part of his life. His legacy will continue through the generations he helped raise and the memories shared by those who knew him.

May Fred Kenneth Kessel rest in peace. May his family and friends find comfort in their memories of him and strength in the love they shared.