Bridget Marie (Scott) Kessler, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 68 in St. Joseph, Michigan. Born on April 25, 1957, in Flint, Michigan, to the late Robert and Marie (Smrekar) Scott, Bridget’s life was a testament to her spirited and faith-filled nature.
Bridget’s journey through life was marked by a profound dedication to caring for others, both in her professional role as a Registered Nurse and in her personal endeavors. Her career in nursing spanned over 37 years, a clear reflection of her unwavering commitment to the well-being of her patients and the healthcare community. Her passion for helping others extended beyond her professional work, as she devoted over 30 years as a volunteer at Niles Scream Park, bringing joy and thrills to countless individuals every Halloween season.
A pillar of strength and guidance, Bridget was lovingly known as Queen B for her “take charge” approach to life. She was a beacon of light in her family, raising three sons, including her beloved late son Jason Kessler. Her nurturing spirit continued with her sons Steven (Christine) Kessler and Anthony Kessler, both of whom she instilled with the values of determination and service, resulting in all three achieving the rank of Eagle Scout within Boy Scout Troop #579.
Bridget’s warmth and love radiated through her interactions with her grandchildren, Emma and Braxton. She found immense joy in connecting with Emma over zoom phone calls and cherished the precious moments spent reading with Braxton. These simple yet profound experiences were the threads that wove the fabric of her rich family life.
Survived by her devoted husband, Michael Kessler, Bridget’s legacy of love and care will live on through him, her sons, Steven and Anthony and her grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Barbara (Bill) Scally, who will remember Bridget as a guiding light in their family, her mother-in-law, Donna Kessler, Michael’s siblings, and a host of nieces and nephews. Bridget was predeceased by her parents, her son Jason, and her brother and sister-in-law, Dennis (Connie) Scott.
Her family will carry forward the torch of her legacy, ensuring that her spirit, love, and teachings remain a guiding force for generations to come. Bridget’s life story will be forever etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her and experiencing her remarkable spirit.
Her son, Anthony said this about Bridget’s final days, “…some of the last memories was that of her closest family surrounding her…, she was able to give and receive those final “I love yous” and encouragements for what she wants for her family and their future. Reading passages from the Bible and her family was praying with her. Her love for her family was strong through her end. Her final words were, “Goodnight, I love you.” She was able to connect with some of her friends she held dear to let them know what was going on. Her friends were reaching out with their love and support for her. In my opinion you couldn’t have asked for a better send off into Jesus’ arms…”
Memorial donations can be made in honor of Bridget to the St. Mary Food Pantry, 322 Clay Street, Niles, Michigan 49120 or Jason Kessler Memorial, Four Flags Area Apple Festival, PO Box 672, Niles, Michigan, or Niles Scream Park, PO Box 367, Cassopolis, Michigan 49031.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place, Friday, May 9, 2025, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception at 11 a.m., with a time of visitation the evening before at Brown Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m. which will include a rosary.
Those wishing to honor Bridget’s memory can take solace in the knowledge that her impact on the world was profound, and her spirit will forever resonate in the lives of those she touched. May she rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Services
Visitation
Thursday, May 8, 2025 5:00PM – 6:15PM
Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main Street, Niles, MI 49120
Rosary
Thursday, May 8, 2025 6:15PM – 7:00PM
Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main Street, Niles, MI 49120
Rosary
Friday, May 9, 2025 11:00AM
St Mary Catholic Church, 219 S. State Street, Niles, MI 49120
Burial
Friday, May 9, 2025 12:00PM
Calvary Cemetery Chicago Road, Niles, MI 49120
Final Resting Place
Calvary Cemetery W. Chicago Road, Niles, MI 49120
Posted On: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 5:00 PM
