The Golf Association of Ontario (GAO) was saddened to learn of the passing of Ontario Golf Hall of Fame member Gerry Kesselring on Oct. 16 at the age of 86. Born in Kitchener in 1928, Kesselring began playing golf at an early age. He won the Ontario Junior Championship in 1945, 1946 and 1948.
Kesselring won the Canadian Junior Championship in 1946 and 1947. He was on the Ontario Provincial team for the Willingdon trophy from 1949 to 1953. Kesselring turned professional in October 1953 and in 1960 applied for a return to amateur ranking. Six years later in 1966, his request was granted.
Included in his achievements are the Ontario Open in 1952 and 1953; Ontario Open as a Professional in 1956 and 1957, the Ontario Amateur Championship in 1949, 1951, 1952 and 1953. In addition, the Ontario Sportswriter and Broadcasters Association chose Kesselring as Ontario’s most outstanding athlete in 1952.
The GAO sends its condolences to Kesselring’s family and friends.
Obituary via Canadian Obituaries
KESSELRING, Gerald Simon – Passed away peacefully on October 16, 2015 at Freeport Health Centre at the age of 86.
Loving husband of the late Helga Kesselring (2003). Predeceased by parents William and Erna Kesselring, sons Fred and Marc, daughter-in-law Judy, brothers Fred and Ken and sister-in-law Ruby. He will be missed by nieces and nephews and their families and dear friend Tony Matlock.
Gerald was a life long employee of Kitchener PUC. He enjoyed his lifetime member status at Rockway Golf Club in Kitchener and was one of Rockway’s finest ever. In May of 2008 he was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame.
At Gerald’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation has taken place. Interment at Memory Gardens, Breslau.
Ratz-Bechtel Funeral Home, 621 King St. W, Kitchener entrusted with arrangements.
Memorial donations to First Baptist Church, Freeport Health Centre or St. Mary’s Hospital would be appreciated.
