Gabriel Michael Kessel

Gabriel “Gabe” Kessel, beloved son, brother, teammate, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on June 3, 2026, surrounded by his family at the age of 19 following a two-year battle with DMG brain cancer. Gabe fought his battle with extraordinary courage, humor, and resilience and remained unmistakably himself throughout his fight, always displaying his sharp‑witted, warm‑hearted, and determined personality seeking to squeeze joy out of every day he was given.

Supported by family, friends, and the community at large, Gabe continued to live fully and fiercely. He spent his time with the people he loved most, laughing, joking, and refusing to let cancer define the spirit of his days.

Despite his cancer diagnosis, Gabe graduated on time and walked with his graduating class from White Bear Lake High School in 2025. Having first started wrestling in the 2nd grade, in school Gabe was most well-known for his fierce and aggressive wrestling style and as a team Captain of the WBL Wrestling Team. Gabe used the skills and discipline he learned from his many years of wrestling to help fuel his fight against cancer, ultimately surviving twice as long as the doctors first estimated.

Throughout his fight, Gabe has been lovingly supported every step of the way by his family, his wrestling teammates and coaches, and untold friends and community members. Those who knew Gabe will forever remember him for his dark, mischievous humor, his stubborn strength, and a smile that could light up the room, as well as for his kindness, his loyalty, and his ability to stay grounded in what mattered most: family, friendship, and faith.

Gabe’s life, though far too short, was filled with love — a love that he gave freely and a love that he received in abundance. His family is profoundly grateful for the prayers, support, and compassion shown by so many throughout his journey.

Gabe is survived by his parents, Joseph and Anna, his siblings Riley, Jacob, Emily and Allison, and by all those whose lives he touched with his courage and his light.

May God bless Gabe and keep him. May his memory be a comfort and a blessing to all who loved him.

All who were touched by Gabe are invited to gather to celebrate Gabe’s life on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Sandberg Funeral & Cremation Services, 2593 7th Ave E, North St Paul, MN 55109. A Catholic funeral service will be held for Gabe Tuesday June 16, with visitation beginning at 10:00, with Mass following at 11:00 at the Church of St. Peter, 2600 Margaret St N, North St Paul, MN 55109. Members of all faiths are welcome. Following the funeral Mass, a vehicle procession will lead to St. Mary’s of the Lake Cemetery, for final internment. Please join the family afterwards for a reception and light luncheon at St. Peter’s Catholic Church fellowship hall.