John William Kesler, 55, of Hickory Hills, died on Tuesday, August 1, 2006, following a brief bout with cancer.

He was born on October 13, 1950, in Olney. A graduate of Cedarville College in Ohio, Mr. Kesler was employed by Standing Stones Church, where he worked as a Minister of Outreach. John coordinated and participated in a variety of evangelistic efforts in such venues as Pacific Garden Mission, area festivals, the streets of Chicago and local nursing homes.

He is survived by two brothers, Samuel L. Kesler and his wife, Deborah, and Joe R. Kesler and his wife, Nancy; nieces and nephews, Rachel, Bryce, Bryan, David, Benjamin, Bethany and Sarah; one aunt and several cousins. In addition, he was loved by "adopted" nieces and nephews, Joe, Cor, David, Becky, Renee, Cindy, Mikey and Kenny.

John was preceded in death by his parents, William Gerald Kesler and Jane Moss (Weaver) Kesler.

Interment will take place at Crest Haven Memorial Park in Olney on Friday following a brief committal service for close friends and family.

Published in Olney Daily Mail (IL)