Wilbur Irvin Hessel
Wilbur Irvin Hessel, 91, passed away Jan. 6, 2011 at Hope Hospice in Cape Coral, Florida, reuniting with his wife of 59 years, Isabelle Jean.
Wilbur was born Jan. 22, 1919 in Indianapolis, Indiana. After graduating from Arsenal Technical High School, he served in the Army during World War II. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the ownership of an independent gasoline business before pursuing a career as an independent marketer in the sheet metal machine industry. He served his community in Chapel Rock Christian Church in Indianapolis and First Christian Church in Fort Myers, Florida. Wilbur was a member of the F. & A.M. Evergreen Lodge No. 713 of Indianapolis, Indiana.
Wilbur had a passion for boating and began racing small boats upon his return from the War. His accomplishments included serving as Commander of the Hoosier Power Squadron and he is also a past District Commander of District 24 and a life member in the United States Sail and Power Squadron. Dancing was a favorite pastime and he always made a very talented partner.
Wilbur is survived by his two daughters, Karen Lookabaugh of Cape Coral, Fla., and Debbie Morris of Greenwood, Indiana; two sons, Mike Hessel of Onalaska, Texas, and Don Hessel of Plymouth, Michigan; sister, Berniece Atkins of Sarasota, Florida; seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
A celebration of Wilbur’s life will be held on Jan. 22, 2011 at Coral Ridge Funeral Home in Cape Coral, Florida. Visitation will be held at 2 p.m. and the funeral will follow at 3 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to Hope Hospice of Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com to leave online thoughts and memories for his family. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home and Cemetery, 1630 SW Pine island Rd., Cape Coral.