Margie Kettler

Margie Kettler It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Margaret (Margie) Lynn Kettler. Margie suffered a catastrophic brain aneurysm on Monday, December 5th and passed away on Thursday, December 15th. Born on January 23rd, 1944 in Massillon to the late Howard and Anne (Ress) Matthews, she eventually married Canton native and future Massillon Municipal Court Judge, Honorable Richard T. Kettler (ret.). His Air Force career moved them across the country for a few years, but they returned home to Massillon, a town she loved dearly, to raise their four children. Growing up, Margie attended St. Mary's School in Massillon. Her ties to St. Mary's would play a major role in her life. After graduating from Kent State University with a teaching degree and getting her own children off to school, she began what would be an inspirational 25 year teaching tenure at the school. Her faith was strong, as was her loyalty to her students and the teaching profession. Countless adults have approached Margie to say thank you, and to remind her she was their "favorite" teacher. Margie has touched the lives of so many people. As a teacher, friend, parent, grandparent and spouse her influence was undeniable and her legacy far-reaching. Her students will remember her for her patience, guidance and innovative teaching methods; her friends for her sense of humor and her zest for life. Her children will remember her for her energy, kindness, compassion and joyful spirit, and her husband will never forget her incredible support and capacity to love. Some people are lucky to find a passion in life. Margie's passions were innumerable. Dancing, tennis, gardening, yoga, teaching, golf, decorating, and the list could go on. Margie embraced everything she did with both arms open wide. At the core of Margie's life was her family. She was the heart of the family and they were the loves of her life. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Honorable Richard T. Kettler (ret.), a brother and sister, Bill (Janet) Matthews and Jane (David) Steiner; her four children and their spouses, Brian & Tracy Kettler, Kevin & Susie Kettler, Kristen & Ryan Ritz and Brent & Melissa Kettler; as well as ten grandchildren, Max, Josh, Noah, Lily, Carter, Kyle, Quinn, Claire, Jack & Cooper. Margie always made each of them feel special, loved and appreciated. Her whole face would light up at the mention of one of her grandchildren and her later years were filled with many hours enjoying their company. The cuddles, giggles and wise counsel she shared with them will be treasured memories forever. Her children are spread across the country now, but that didn't stop Margie from drawing them together as often as possible at their home in Massillon or Country Creek in Florida. The stories, the "Margie-isms", the laughs and the love that they all shared at their frequent get-togethers in Ohio, Hilton Head, Charlotte, Naples or San Francisco are memories that will be cherished, nurtured, celebrated and handed down to future generations. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Saturday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Massillon. Fr. John Tully, MSGR James Kolp & Fr. Robert Kaylor will concelebrate the Mass. Her final resting place will be Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call Friday 2-4 & 6-8 PM at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Cancer Society, in Howard Matthews' memory. Messages of support and comfort may be sent to www.paquelet.com. Paquelet Massillon (330)833-3222