Dr. David Lockwood Kesling

Dr. David Lockwood Kesling, 93, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, October 23, 2023, at the home of his daughter, Janet Kesling, in Santa Fe, NM.

Dr. Kesling was born on February 6, 1930, in La Porte, IN to Dr. Harold Dean Kesling and Jean Bishop Crawford.  He is survived by his children, Jeffrey Kesling (Kathy), Linda Kesling (Jack), Janet Kesling, Sandra Kesling, John Kesling, Leslie Danesi (Marc), Deborah Jaqua (John), Dr. Zachary Kesling (Mila); 14 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Timothy Kesling.

After serving in the Army during the Korean War, he graduated from the Loyola School of Dentistry.  He joined Kesling & Rocke Orthodontics, where, in addition to his practice, he taught advanced orthodontic techniques to other orthodontists from all over the world.  Dr. Kesling also had his own orthodontic practice in La Porte.  He was the builder and owner of the La Porte Holiday Inn.

He served as a volunteer with the La Porte County Sheriff’s Posse and served as the Chairman of the Draft Horse Association of La Porte.  He was actively involved in the La Porte County Fair Association for many years and loved the fair.  He was also a member of the American Carriage Association and built an award-winning carriage himself.  A lifetime artist, he was an avid bird carver during his life, winning numerous national awards; his most coveted was given by the Ward Foundation.

As a beloved brother, father, grandfather, and friend, his intelligence, artistry, wit, and dry sense of humor will be dearly missed by all.

He will be laid to rest at the Door Village Cemetery in La Porte, where a graveside service for family and friends will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 12 noon.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.cutlercares.com.