Brady Glenn Kessler

BRADY GLENN KESSLER, age 12, of Waterville passed away surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Mayo Clinic Health System – St. Mary’s Campus in Rochester.

Brady and his brother Aaron were born on May 5, 2013, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of David Kessler and Cierra (Hayes) Pumper. Born two months earlier than his due date, Brady showed strength and determination from the very beginning.

More than anything, Brady loved being a big brother. From the very beginning, he shared an unbreakable bond with his twin brother, Aaron - one strengthened through every season of life. His younger siblings looked up to Brady, drawn naturally to his gentle heart and loving spirit.

Pictures often tell stories words cannot fully capture, and Brady’s life was filled with moments that radiated joy, grit, and an unmistakable love for adventure. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and staying active, always ready for whatever came next. Family camping trips to Duluth remain especially treasured memories, filled with laughter and togetherness that will live on forever.

Brady briefly lived in Montana before settling in Minnesota, where he built lasting friendships and meaningful memories. He attended Bridgewater Elementary School and TCU before eventually making his home in Waterville. While there, he wrestled for three years and played baseball for one, proudly wearing his #8 jersey with Elysian Little League Baseball. He was also a member of Grizzly Wrestling and First Baptist Church in Waterville.

In his free time, Brady enjoyed fishing, being outdoors, playing video games, and- most of all-spending time with his siblings. He loved school and learning and often talked about becoming an architect, joking that he would be Tyler’s boss one day.

Brady had a rare and beautiful gift: the ability to make others feel truly seen simply by being himself. He never held a grudge and carried a contagious smile that left a lasting impression on everyone he met. As his family so perfectly expressed, “Brady wasn’t just someone we knew. He was someone we felt.”

Number 8’s final huddle was a powerful testament to the camaraderie and deep bonds he shared- with his brothers at home, on the mat, off the field, and across countless courts. The love and brotherhood and sisterhood surrounding him were unmistakable and bring a comfort to his family during this difficult season.

Though our hearts are shattered, we cling to the promise of faith and the hope of being reunited one day at Heaven’s gates. Brady’s light, love, and spirit will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know him.

Until we meet again. Forever loved, forever missed, forever a Grizzly, and forever Brady #8.

Brady is survived his mother, Cierra (Tyler) Pumper of Waterville; father, David Kessler of Waterville; siblings, Aaron, Eli, Brantley, Jaxon, Colt of Waterville, Clara of Billings, MT; and many other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his grandpa, John Lynch; uncles, Robert Glenn Hayes and Kodi Kessler; and great-grandma, Rose Reller.

An account has been established at Elysian Bank, PO Box #179, 121 Main Street East, Elysian MN 56028. Please reference the Brady Kessler Benefit.

Visitation for Brady will be held from 4 – 7 PM on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Waterville. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.

Funeral Service for Brady will be at 11:00 AM on Monday, January 19, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Waterville.