FOWLER – Gertrude Marie Kessen, 96, died Saturday, April 11, 2026.  

She was born Aug. 15, 1929 to John and Olivia (Habiger) Knoeber.  

She married Paul Kessen Aug. 3, 1950. He preceded her in death.

She was an excellent cook and baker, and cooked at the Sterling House nursing home in Dodge City. 

She was a devout Catholic and had a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.  

She worked had throughout her life, and she was often Paul’s field and irrigation partner while looking after her children.

Survivors include children: Karla Walker (Don Finkeldei), Jo Chance (Kendall), Patty Wells (Bob), Kenny (Lynette), and Karen McDowell; siblings: Dorothy Devine, Cle Knoeber, and Julia Kessen (Don); 15 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Jim Knoeber; and sister, Margaret Knoeber.

• Funeral services took place Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Fowler.  

Burial took place at the Fowler Cemetery in Fowler.

Memorials are suggested to the Fowler Residential Care Center or St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in care of Fidler-Orme-Bachman Mortuary in Meade.

Condolences may be left at fidlerormebachmanmortuary.com.