KESSEL, Jónquil Genevieve 1983 - 2026

KESSEL, CONDON, PECK, LEDGER, KALEN, KOFFMAN, KLINE, CARR, RUPPERT, COOK, KISNER, KOTTKE, WINFREY, HART, TOBEN, ALLSUP, BURGER, SIRDOREUS, GARRETSON, PALMER, SCULL, SHIVERS, KEMP, ESTLE, WAGNER, NELSON, BURR, BATES, HARRINGTON

Posted By: Joey Stark
Date: 5/10/2026 at 13:43:33

"The Fairfield Ledger"
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Page A4, Columns 2 and 3

Jónquil Genevieve KESSEL
Fairfield

Jónquil Genevieve KESSEL, 42, of Fairfield, Iowa, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, following a courageous battle with complications from pneumonia (note: in Linn Co., IA). She was surrounded by the love of family and dear friends in her final days, a reflection of the way she lived her life, deeply connected to those around her.

Jónquil was born on December 19, 1983, in Fairfield, Iowa, the Charles and Kathleen (CONDON) KESSEL. From the very beginning, she was a bright and precocious child, full of curiosity, warmth, and a spark that would become her signature throughout her life.

She grew into a woman known for her quick wit, bubbly personality, and sincere heart. Jónquil never met a stranger, and her natural ability to connect with people made everyone feel welcome, seen, and valued. She had a remarkable sense of humor and brought laughter wherever she went, often lighting up a room with her presence alone.

Jónquil was a proud graduate of Iowa Wesleyan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Life Science and Psychology. During her time there, she was deeply involved in campus life and formed lasting friendships. She was a member of Pi Beta Phi Women's Fraternity and was recognized for her academic excellence through her involvement in Beta Beta Beta National Science Society, Iota Phi National Honor Society, and Blue Key National Honor Society. Her leadership and enthusiasm for community were evident in her role as President of the Commuter Club, as well as her work on the Enrollment Management Committee. She also expressed her creative side as a member of the International Thespian Society.

During her younger years, Jónquil had the honor of serving as a Page at the Iowa State Legislature, an experience that reflected both her intelligence and her curiosity about the world around her. That curiosity carried her far beyond her hometown, as she embraced opportunities to travel internationally during high school and college. She explored Australia and New Zealand through the Dwight D. Eisenhower People to People program and later Ireland; experiences that broadened her perspective and deepened her appreciation for people and cultures.

Jónquil was deeply devoted to her family. She cherished time spent with her father fishing, mushroom hunting, attending Old Threshers, and visiting the Iowa State Fair. She shared a special bond with her late grandfather, Harvey CONDON, gardening by his side, as well as with her lifelong best friend, Hattie PECK, who was like a sister to her. She treasured monthly get-togethers and adventures with her beloved "Scuzzy Cuzzy's," Hattie PECK, Jessica LEDGER-KALEN, and Erin LEDGER, filled with laughter, connection, and lasting memories.

Together with her sister Jenny, with whom she reconnected about ten years ago, Jónquil formed a deeply meaningful bond that felt immediate and natural. Though they had spent many years apart, it was clear they shared a deep connection and much in common. Their relationship quickly grew into one filled with laughter, ease, and understanding, and it felt as though they had always known each other. They cherished time together through rural Iowa road trips, crafting, visits to local wineries, and exploring favorite coffee shops. While their time together was far too short, the bond they built was special and lasting.

Jónquil had a special gift for caring for others. She was especially devoted to her cousin, Alex KOFFMAN, who has cerebral palsy, and took great pride in helping care for him with patience, love, and unwavering dedication. She also shared a deep and meaningful bond with Jaden Dunbar Crawford, her beloved "goddaughter," whom she mentored and adored. Her compassion extended to all children, and she made it a priority each year to ensure children on local giving trees received gifts at Christmas.

She had an enormous love for animals, both her own and those of family and friends, and treated every pet with affection and care.

Jónquil was incredibly intelligent and resourceful, and there was truly nothing she couldn't figure out. Whether it was fixing or rebuilding a car, wiring a light fixture with the help of Cousin Jennifer's Spanish pictures, or dominating a game of Trivial Pursuit with her remarkable memory, she approached everything with confidence and curiosity. She loved cooking, had an adventurous palate, and found joy in sharing good food with the people she loved.

She was deeply involved in her community as a member and treasurer of Chapter OO P.E.O. in Fairfield, as well as Elks Lodge Fairfield #1192 and Eagles Ottumwa FOE #114.

Above all, Jónquil was thoughtful, sentimental, and full of grace. She had a rare ability to forgive, to extend kindness, and to allow others the space to be imperfect. She showed up again and again for the people in her life, offering love without condition.

She is survived by her loving parents, Charles and Kathleen (CONDON) KESSEL of Fairfield, Iowa; her sister, Jennifer (Jamie) KLINE of Vinton, Iowa, and their children Michael (Katy) KLINE, Grant (Skylar) KLINE, and Jeremy KLINE; her great-niece and -nephew, Adalida and Stetson KLINE.

She is also survived by her CONDON family: Kristine CONDON, Karol (Steve) CARR, Karin (Ken RUPPERT) CONDON, and Kirk (Julie COOK) CONDON; and her beloved cousins Sean KISNER, Danielle (Zak KOTTKE) KISNER, Jennifer WINFREY, Grant WINFREY, Anngi (Todd) HART, Jessica LEDGER-KALEN, Erin (Justin TOBEN) LEDGER, Harley (Kolby) ALLSUP, Dalton COOK, and Alex KOFFMAN, along with many more cousins and extended family members.

The survivors in the KESSEL family include Anna Mae BURGER, David (Charlotte) KESSEL, Ann SIRDOREUS, Mike (Bonnie) KESSEL, Joan SIRDOREUS, John (Kathy) KESSEL, Lynn (Jane) GARRETSON; and her beloved cousins Robert (Sarah) KESSEL, Paul (Amy PALMER) KESSEL, Lauri (Steve SCULL) CURRY, Kay (C.C. SHIVERS) KEMP, Dan (Heidi) SIRDOREUS, Jim (Jessica) SIRDOREUS, Denise (Robert) ESTLE, Chris (Jodi) KESSEL, Ed SIRDOREUS, Sarah (Clint) WAGNER, Heather (Shawn) NELSON, Joe (Nicole) GARRETSON, Betty (John) BURR, and Colleen BATES, along with many more cousins and extended family members.

She also leaves behind her chosen family, including Hattie PECK, who was like a sister to her in every way.

Jónquil was preceded in death by her grandparents Harvey and Alberta CONDON, Nadine and Vince JOHNSON, Raymond and Alice KESSEL, great-uncle Howard BURGER, aunt Mary GARRETSON, uncles Jerry SIRDOREUS and Don SIRDOREUS, cousins Dewayne BURGER, Ryan GARRETSON, and David HARRINGTON.

Jónquil was an organ donor, continuing her legacy of generosity and care by giving the gift of life to others.

She was truly a light in this world, bright, warm, and impossible to forget. Her laughter, kindness, and unwavering love will live on in all who knew her.

In honor of Jónquil's generous spirit and her deep love for Alex, memorials may be made to the Alex Koffman Irrevocable Trust, continuing the care and support she so faithfully gave. Contributions may be mailed to 709 S. 2nd St, Fairfield, IA 52556.

In celebration of her life, a FUNeral will be held on Saturday, May 23, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Fairfield Golf and Country Club. This will be a joyful celebration of her life, filled with laughter, memories, and the vibrant spirit she shared with so many. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

~~~~
Copied with permission from The Fairfield Ledger, Inc. IAGenWeb Bylaws PROHIBIT the COPYING AND RE-POSTING OF THIS MATERIAL IN ANY PUBLIC VENUE such as Ancestry or Find A Grave without WRITTEN permission from the submitter ~ copyright restrictions apply.
*Transcribed for genealogy purposes; I have no relation to the person(s) mentioned.

Jefferson Obituaries maintained by Joey Stark.
WebBBS 4.33 Genealogy Modification Package by WebJourneymen