Kerry Kent Koestler

Kerry Kent Koestler, 88, of North Mankato, MN passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. Kerry lived a life guided by faith, family, service, and a love of learning. A devoted husband, father, educator, and financial professional, Kerry touched many lives through his kindness, dedication, and commitment to helping others.

Kerry was born on March 21, 1938, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. His family moved to Fairmont, Minnesota, in the 1940s, where he enjoyed growing up near his grandparents and extended family. He attended St. Paul's Lutheran School and Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota, before continuing his education at Rochester Junior College and graduating from college in Mankato in 1961.

In 1960, Kerry married Shirley, beginning a wonderful journey together filled with family, faith, and adventure. After graduating from college in 1961, Kerry was recalled to active military duty during the Berlin Crisis, proudly serving his country.

Kerry began his teaching career in 1962 in New Richland, Minnesota, teaching German and social studies. In 1968, he joined the Robbinsdale School District as a German teacher, and the family settled in Brooklyn Center. His passion for German language and culture inspired him to lead student trips to Germany and German-language camping experiences in Minnesota and Montana.

In 1975, Kerry and his family moved to Dodge Center, Minnesota, where, trusting in God's guidance, he began a new career with Lutheran Brotherhood. He earned his Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant designations and dedicated himself to helping families plan for their financial futures. He retired in 2003 as Lutheran Brotherhood and Aid Association for Lutherans merged to become Thrivent.

Kerry and Shirley shared a love of travel, exploring destinations throughout the United States and around the world, including Germany, Hawaii, London, the Caribbean, Israel, China, Alaska, and Mexico. Their adventures together created many treasured memories.

Above all, Kerry cherished his family and his faith in God. He will be remembered for his dedication to his loved ones, his passion for education, his service to others, and his willingness to embrace life's opportunities with faith and determination.

Kerry is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Shirley; his son, Kerry Jr. (Ruth), and their children, Seth (Courtney) and Jocelyn (Micah); his daughter, Karla, and her children, Taylor (Alex) and Kaylee; his daughter, Kathy (Kevin), and their son, Luke (Arianna); his son, Kurt (Katy), and their children, Gretta, William, and Isaiah; and eight cherished great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, several beloved relatives, and many dear friends.

A celebration of Kerry's life will be held on at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, November 16, 2026, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE in Kasson, Minnesota. Visitation will be held one hour prior to his service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Concord cemetery in Concord, MN with military honors provided by the Dodge Center American Legion Post 384.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE Kasson, MN 55940 (507) 634-6510. Blessed be his memory.