Long time local resident, Arla Joan Kessler of Delta, passed away at her home at Willow Tree Care Center on April 16, 2026. Born on August 9, 1940, she was the second child of Joseph and Arla Schmalz who raised eight children in their loving home on Ash Mesa. Although she had no children of her own, she was deeply loved by her 16 nieces and nephews. She attended elementary school at the Delta Catholic School and graduated from Olathe High School in 1958. She worked at the Delta Credit Bureau several years before marrying Ed Kessler on June 20, 1976. They spent several years in Everett, Washington before returning to their small farm near Montrose where they raised a few sheep and a few puppies, while exploring the surrounding countryside and mountains which they both loved. Health issues intervened; Joan lost Ed on June 5, 1998. She had become a skilled care-giver, so naturally moved into the roll of helping her mother and others, as well as continuing working for the American Family Insurance Agency. She dearly loved children, so later joined the Foster Grandparents Organization out of Grand Junction, dedicating at least ten years of her life to volunteering with them. Kids loved her back, filling the void she was experiencing. Joan also loved to cook. When one walked into her home, it emanated wonderful, inviting smells! She also loved to keep her hands busy—and they always were. She knitted countless baby items such as quilts, blankets, hats and booties, keeping many a child warm and cozy. Of course, she always found outlets in order to donate those items! Because of her own disabilities, Joan could relate and be very compassionate to others. In the nursing homes where she became a permanent resident, her company was always in demand at the gaming tables. She was a great conversationalist and could tell interesting stories! Joan is survived by her two brothers, Chad Schmalz and Ray Schmalz of Olathe; sisters Marlene Abbott, Ft. Collins, CO; Rebecca Borg, San Diego, CA; Ramona Wall, Cedaredge; and Julie Fitzgerald, Kayenta, AZ. Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Ed, as well as her parents Joe and Arla Schmalz, a baby brother, Mathew Lashley Schmalz and her brother Art Schmalz. 

Funeral services to honor Joan will be held at Crippin Funeral Home in Montrose at 10:00 A.M, Tuesday, April 21 with Reverend James Conley of the Delta Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Olathe Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Willow Tree Care Center, 2050 S Main Street, Delta, CO, 81416