Marian C. Kessler, 94, of Ephrata passed away peacefully on September 18, 2026, with her family by her side. She was born on September 11, 1932, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to the late William & Marian (Anderson) Canty.

A graduate of Ephrata High School, Class of 1951, Marian built a long and steady working life in retail pharmacy. For more than 40 years, she served in the field, including in a managerial role at White Shield, later Rite Aid. Her years of work reflected the same qualities that shaped her life so fully: dedication, care, and a quiet dependability. Marian was quiet mannered and always a good listener. She was known for a caring demeanor that drew people to her and made others feel heard and valued. She read the newspaper regularly to stay informed, and she found her greatest joy in the people she loved most. Her proudest accomplishment was raising her four children. Family was her whole world, and she especially cherished attending family events and being together with her children and grandchildren. Those gatherings, and the time shared across generations, were among the moments she treasured most. Marian will be remembered for a life marked by devotion to family, steady work, and gentle kindness. Her memory will live on in the love she gave, the example she set, and the many lives touched by her caring presence.

Marian is survived by Julie Kessler-Bowles (Kevin) of Banebridge, Mark Kessler (Patti) of Leland, NC, Kerry DiEnno (Michael) of Rutledge, Kelly Homan (John) of Ephrata; eight grandchildren, Daniel, Katie, Patrick, Laura, Molly, Jenni, Christopher, and Steven; five great grandsons; brother, John Canty. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by a grandchild, Sherri; and siblings, Anne Slater, William A. Canty.

Services will be private to the family. Marian’s final resting place will be at Saint Josephs New Catholic Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff at Alpine Valley Healthcare Center for their care and kindness.