Herbert Kissell — UPDATED
Herbert “Herb” Kissell passed away at his home on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, at the age of 79. He was born on July 25, 1945, in South Bend, to Herbert B. and Genevieve (McCaffery) Kissell. Herbert’s life was characterized by hard work, commitment to family and a deep community service.
Growing up in South Bend, Herbert graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1963, where he developed a strong foundation of values that he carried throughout his life. His dedication to hard work began at an early age and was evident in his career spanning several years in sales and many years in the home improvement industry.
A man of faith, Herbert grew up in the Catholic Church and served many masses at St. Joseph Church. He was a longtime member of St. Mary of the Lake in Culver and recently moved to Warsaw, where he attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church. His heart for service was reflected in his volunteerism in the church as well.
Herbert had a multitude of interests that brought joy to his life. He was renowned among friends and family for his grilling skills, often bringing people together around a warm grill with laughter and food. In addition, he was an avid coin collector and found enjoyment on the golf course. He loved his garden. Herb was a master at euchre and rarely lost. His kids enjoyed his wit and considered him the originator of the “dad joke.” He was a fan of both the Chicago White Sox and the Bears, as well as Notre Dame.
Above all, Herbert was a proud husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His family meant everything to him, and he took great pride in watching them grow and thrive. In addition to his wife of more than 49 years, Dottie, to whom he was married in 1975, he is survived by seven children, Debra (Andrew) Hensler, Rebecca DeVliegher, Trisha (Rick) Jackson, Jon (Megan) Kissell, Angela (Thomas) Sobieck, Paul (Amber) Kissell and Andrew (Trier) Kissell; and grandchildren, Jason (Kaylee) Hensler, Zoe (Nick) Meeker, Alex (Paige) DeVliegher, Shea Jackson, Cody Jackson, Lucas Jackson, Caleb Kissell, Madelyn Kissell, Gavin (Jenna) Sobieck, Aiden Sobieck, Jackie (Jermey) Litteral, Jayme Sobieck, Thomas Jr. Sobieck, Connor Denaut, Isabella Kissell, Levi Kissell and Drew Kissell. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Jean Kissell, and numerous great-grandchildren whom he adored.
Those who preceded him in passing include his parents; and four siblings, Jack Kissell, Joanne (Jack) Kelley, Robert (Bonnie) Kissell and James Kissell.
Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Warsaw is entrusted with the care of Herb. Friends may join the family for visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 20. Beginning at 11 a.m., a Funeral Mass will take place. All services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 125 N. Harrison St., Warsaw.
In lieu of flowers, gifts should be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic School, 135 N. Harrison St., or to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Building Fund, 125 N. Harrison St., Warsaw IN 46580.