TOLEDO -- Harry Kessler, Toledo's 54th mayor who served from 1971-1976, has died. Mayor Carty Finkbeiner's office says Kessler died peacefully at his home last evening at the age of 79.
"Mayor Kessler was the truest example of unselfish giving and public leadership in my lifetime," said Finkbeiner in a prepared statement. "He was a great Mayor... He brought together business and labor, Republicans and Democrats and various people of differing opinions to improve Toledo."
Kessler also served as a city councilman, and Toledo's Clerk of Courts. Later, he was elected to the Toledo Public School Board, and served on the Toledo-Lucas County Library Board.
"He did each of the above - not for fame or fortune - but because he wanted to make a positive difference, and he did," said Finkbeiner in a statement. "My wife, Amy, and I offer our sympathy and grateful thanks to Mary Lou, his loving wife of nearly 60 years, and his family."
Kessler was a big supporter of the Marina District development on the east bank of the Maumee River. Kessler went to bat for the city, by campaigning at senior centers, in hopes of convincing senior citizens to support the "Issue One" vote.
Two Lucas County Commissioners were among those remembering Kessler this morning. "We will miss Mr. Kessler very much. He took care of us as a community," said Commissioner Tina Skeldon-Wozniak. "He absolutely loved Toledo and Lucas County and wanted the best for all of us."
County Commissioner Ben Konop agreed. "A man who really, people I think, knew was a decent guy," said Konop. "Very humble, down to earth, good man, and I think that's his legacy."
Funeral services are planned for Saturday. Count on News 11 to have more on this story as the information comes in.
