Kathleen Anne Gessner, age 59, a lifelong resident of Monroe, MI passed away, Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at Oakwood Southshore Medical Center in Trenton, MI. Kathy had been ill since November 4 of this year. Kathy was born August 16, 1949 in Monroe, MI the daughter of Melvin and Laura A. (Sharpe) Hartwig. Kathy was a 1967 graduate of Airport High School. She was currently taking classes at MCCC working toward her degree in nursing. Kathy married Robert G. Gessner Jr. on October 9, 1970 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Monroe. Kathy was employed as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the Lutheran Home for the past 15 years, prior to that she worked at Frenchtown Senior Center. Kathy was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church where she sang in both the church choir and the Resurrection Choir. Kathy volunteered her time freely to various groups in the area some of which included the American Red Cross and Relay For Life. Kathy's memberships included; Parents without Partners, Monroe Community Players, CMI Choir and Toastmasters International. Kathy was a committee member for Boy Scouts Of America Troup #597 and a Past President of the Rose Garden Club. Kathy is survived by her beloved mother Laura A. Hartwig of Carleton, 3 loving children; Robert G. (Lisa) Gessner III, Russell E. Gessner both of Monroe and Rita Anne Gessner of Allen Park, MI. 3 cherished grandchildren; Connor Andrew, Antonia Marie and Alexis Anne, 2 Brothers; Bruce (Janet) and David (Kathy) Hartwig both Carleton. Sadly, Kathleen was preceded in death by her father. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 2-8 PM and Sunday from 1-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, where Sister Carmela Whitton will officiate a scripture service at 5:00 PM on Sunday. Funeral services celebrating her life will be held on Monday, November 24, 2008 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. The Rev. Ellen McGormley pastor of 1st Presbyterian Church in Monroe will officiate. Interment will follow at Michigan Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Relay For Life.