Orson Pratt Kesler
Orson Pratt Kesler
1937 ~ 2023
Orson Pratt Kesler, (86), passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 25, 2023.
Born July 20, 1937, to Orson Enholm Kesler and Helen Anchorstrand Kesler, he was raised in Midvale, Utah along with his older sister, Dorrine.
After graduating from Jordan High School in 1955, Orson served in the U.S. Army Reserve, completing his basic training at Fort Ord, CA. He fulfilled a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Northern California Mission from 1958 to 1960.
In 1961, Orson met his soon-to-be wife, Claudia Hardy, at the Terrace Ballroom. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on September 21, 1961. Orson and Claudia established a home in Midvale where they raised 6 sons. Throughout his life, Orson often expressed that family was his life’s passion and devotion.
After completing course work at the U of U and BYU, Orson attended the Palmer College of Chiropractic, graduating in 1964. As a 3rd generation chiropractor, his Midvale practice extended over 40 years. He was on the Utah Chiropractic Association board for 10+ years, serving as president for 2 years.
Orson was an accomplished drummer, honing his skills from an early age. He played drums for the U of U marching band, Army reserve, and several dance bands.
As a lifelong active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Orson served in many callings, including teacher, youth leader, Bishop, and High Counselor. He particularly enjoyed serving on Temple Square as a guide and host.
Orson and Claudia cherished their church service mission in South Africa (2004-2005), an experience they found to be both challenging and rewarding.
Throughout his life, Orson enjoyed robust health through good nutrition, clean living, and vigorous exercise (swimming, cycling, etc.).
From an early age, Orson loved to build and fix things, beginning with the carving of model airplanes as a boy to the completion of complex projects later in life. Nothing seemed to be beyond his imagination and determination. He was fearless in taking on any project! A few examples include the building of a home in Taylorsville, Utah, erecting a warehouse/workshop adjacent to his office, and fabricating 3 custom campers (from Cadillac hearses). Also included in his passions were boats/boating and classic cars.
Orson is preceded in death by his fourth son, Phil. What a blessed and joyous reunion they are having! He is survived by his wife, Claudia; sons Matt (Tauna), Dan (Melisa), Ken, Aaron (Sina), Stephen (Morgann); and daughter-in-law, Heidi (Phil). Orson and Claudia have 16 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Funeral services for Orson will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023 at 11:00 am in the Mountainville 1st Ward Chapel located at 98 East Canyon Crest Road, Alpine, Utah 84004. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday morning from 9:30-10:30 am prior to services at the church. Interment will follow at the Midvale City Cemetery, located at 471 6th Avenue, Midvale, Utah 84047.