Kessel, C. Royal (Dr.)

Passed: 1965-09-06

Age: 71

Source: Jackson Herald

Death Notice:

Obituary Date: 1965-09-08

Information: DR. ROYAL KESSEL DIES SUDDENLY AT OFFICE - Dr. C. Royal Kessel, 71-year-old physician of Ripley, died suddenly of a stroke on Monday while working with patients at his office.  He walked into an adjoining room and complained to his son, Dr. James Kessel, of a severe pain in his head.  The son helped him to a chair into which he slumped and was pronounced dead soon after, although all known methods were used in a vain attempt to revive him.      Dr. Kessel was a former mayor of Ripley, had been county coroner for a quarter of a century, and was Jackson county's public health officer.  He was a veteran of World War I, a graduate of West Virginia University and Jefferson Medical School, a member of the American Legion, a member of the Ripley A.F. & A.M. Lodge, a 32nd degree Mason, and a member of the Governor's Advisory Commission for the Aging.  He was also a member of both the West Virginia and American Medical Associations.       He was born at Given on December 16, 1893, a son of the late Charles R. Kessel and Louisa French Kessel.  In early manhood he was a teacher in the public schools.  He married Ruby Staats, who survives, with two sons, County Clerk C. E. Kessel and Dr. James S. Kessel, both of Ripley, and a daughter, Mrs. Hugh P. McLaughlin of Mt. Lebanon, Pa.; his mother, Mrs. Louisa Kessel of Ripley; two brothers, Dr. Ray Kessel of Ripley and Dr. Russell Kessel of Charleston; and eight grandchildren.  The funeral service will be held today (Wednesday) at 2 p.m. at the Parsons funeral home. Rev. Robert Evans and Rev. Roy McCoy will officiate and burial will be in Pine Hill cemetery.