The 440-Acre Kessler GPA stands as a testament to a love for the outdoors
Today, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever staff, chapters, and members are remembering the life and contributions of South Dakota native, Tim Kessler, who passed away on October 10 at the age of 66. A lifetime conservationist, Kessler served on the National Board of Directors for PF & QF from 2010 to 2020, including a four-year term as chairman.
“For those who didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Tim on a personal level, he was deeply committed to family, had a sharp business mind, and was an ardent supporter and friend to conservation not just in South Dakota, but across the country,” stated Matt Kucharski, the current chairman for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s National Board of Directors. “In his service to The Habitat Organization, Tim was a great listener and collaborator who helped build Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever into the organization’s they are today. Additionally, he was just a really great individual and a kind soul who will be missed by many.”
As a dedicated outdoorsman, Kessler served on the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission for 17 years, consistently working to improve and maintain the state’s natural resources. A lifelong resident of Aberdeen, Kessler is also a third-generation family owner of the 1939 establishment, Kessler Food and Drug. He took over the family business in the late 1980’s after graduating from Northern State University in Aberdeen. In 2013, South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard recognized Kessler with the state’s “Distinguished Service Award” for his efforts on behalf of the state’s outdoor heritage. This included a $100K donation to help enhance statewide habitat initiatives across South Dakota.
In addition to his many community service accolades and dedicated leadership positions, Kessler’s conservation ethic was honored in 2021 when Pheasants Forever announced the purchase and donation of the 440-acre Kessler Game Production Area via the organization’s
Build a Wildlife Area® Program.
The Kessler Game Production Area is located just east of Pickerel Lake and is part of the Glacial Lakes Region that encompasses much of northeast South Dakota and stretches along the Coteau des Prairies hills. Comprised of 236 acres of native prairie, 124 acres of cropland (planned for conversion to grasslands restoration) and 80 acres of wetlands, this expansive project is home to some of South Dakota’s most iconic species, including ring-necked pheasants, sharp-tailed grouse, and waterfowl, along with the endangered Dakota Skipper butterfly. It will forever stand as a testament to the outdoor legacy of Tim Kessler.
A memorial service for Tim Kessler will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 16, 2023, at the Johnson Fine Arts Center located at 12th Ave SE in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
Click here to read the full obituary.