Mack Smith Kesler, 88, died peacefully Nov. 17, 1999.
He was born August 12, 1911 in Salt Lake City to Alonzo Pratt Kesler and Donnette Smith Kesler. He was married to Lavina Walker July 3, 1937 in the Salt Lake Temple with whom he had four sons. Lavina Preceded him in death January 12, 1998.Mack graduated from the University of Utah in Civil Engineering in 1937 and was awarded a Masters Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado in 1948. He joined the faculty of the Engineering College of the University of Utah in 1940, where he was a Professor and Counselor until he retired in 1985.
When Mack was two years old he contracted polio which affected his lower body and legs. Although he had to use crutches growing up he nevertheless played soccer, football, handball, basketball, track, and tennis. He met all the requirements for Eagle Scout by age 14 including requirements in high jumping, swimming and archery. He was himself a scoutmaster for 10 years. In 1941 he was featured in "strange as it seems" for his athletic prowess, including walking a mile on crutches alone. At age 22 Mack went to New York City where his weaker leg was amputated. He was fit with an artificial limb so he could walk with only the use of a cane.
Mack is preceded in death by brothers: A. Pratt Kesler (Ellen), Henry S. Kesler (Nancy), and sisters Donnette McAllister (Stanley), Marion Robbins (Kenneth), and Imogene Linford (Leon).
Mack is also preceded in death by three sons. Lee Mack Kesler died June 11, 1960 at age 21 from a boating accident. Gordon Maynard Kesler died May 26, 1978 at age 33 from an automobile accident, survived by wife Cathy and sons Douglas and Brain. Dene Joseph Kesler died Sept. 25, 1996 at age 55 from cancer, survived by wife Mary Lynn and children Dena Etcher (Von), Jason (Julie). Jack (Alisha), Margaret, and J.D.
Mack is survived by his son Grant Smith Kesler (Jeanne), their children Matthew, Jill Rawle (Jeremy), Emily, and 10 great-grandchildren. Thousands of former students and friends were touched by the life of this good and great man.
A graveside service will be Saturday, Nov. 20, 1999, at 10 a.m. at the Salt Lake City Cemetery. Friends may call Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the Larkin Mortuary, 260 East South Temple.