SJR46: Joint Resolution Text

2025 - 2026 LEGISLATURE

LRB-3043/1

MRK:emw

2025 SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION 46

May 9, 2025 - Introduced by Senators Drake, Carpenter, Larson, Wall, Roys, Dassler-Alfheim, Hesselbein, Smith, Ratcliff, Wirch, Spreitzer, Wanggaard and L. Johnson, cosponsored by Representatives Goodwin, Sinicki, Arney, Spiros, Doyle, Neubauer, Tenorio, Rivera-Wagner, Mursau, Madison, Brown, DeSmidt, Stubbs, Vining, Emerson, Kirsch, Fitzgerald, Phelps, Bare, Ortiz-Velez, Moore Omokunde, Kaufert, Clancy, Palmeri, J. Jacobson, Joers, Snodgrass, Haywood, Taylor, Prado, Johnson and Subeck. Referred to Committee on Senate Organization.

SJR46,1,2 Relating to: honoring the life and public service of Representative Frederick P. Kessler.

SJR46,1,5 Whereas, Representative Frederick P. Kessler was born on January 11, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and dedicated his life to the service of his community, state, and nation; and

SJR46,1,9 Whereas, Representative Kessler graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and later earned his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School, which equipped him with the knowledge and skills to advocate for justice and equity; and

SJR46,1,13 Whereas, Representative Kessler began his political career with his election to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 1960, becoming the youngest member to serve at the time, and went on to serve a total of 12 terms in the assembly over multiple decades; and

SJR46,2,2 Whereas, Representative Kessler also served as a Milwaukee County judge from 1972 to 1978 and, after statewide court reforms that he helped lead, as Milwaukee County Circuit Court judge from 1978 to 1981 and 1986 to 1988; and

SJR46,2,5 Whereas, Representative Kessler was a proud husband to Joan F. Kessler, with whom he shared a life of love and partnership, and a devoted father who balanced his deep commitment to public service with his role as a family man; and

SJR46,2,8 Whereas, Representative Kessler’s dedication to public service extended beyond the assembly through his work as a mediator and arbitrator, resolving disputes and ensuring fair outcomes for all parties involved; and

SJR46,2,10 Whereas, Representative Kessler helped lead the successful effort to create German, French, and Spanish language immersion schools in Milwaukee; and

SJR46,2,13 Whereas, Representative Kessler was instrumental in advocating for the redistricting reform that promoted fair representation and the protection of voting rights for all citizens of Wisconsin; and

SJR46,2,17 Whereas, Representative Kessler poured his heart and passion into his role as a public servant, championing causes to protect civil rights, support labor unions, reform the judicial system, and uphold the principles of fairness and justice in Wisconsin; and

SJR46,2,20 Whereas, Representative Kessler’s legacy includes his tireless work to advance social justice, his mentorship of countless young leaders, and his unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy and equality; and

SJR46,2,23 Whereas, Representative Kessler’s lifelong contributions to the state of Wisconsin have left an indelible mark on the legislature and the communities he served; now, therefore, be it

SJR46,3,3 Resolved by the senate, the assembly concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin Legislature do hereby honor the distinguished life and public service of Representative Frederick P. Kessler, recognizing his devotion to his family, his community, and the causes he so passionately championed; and, be it further

SJR46,3,6 Resolved, That the senate chief clerk shall provide a copy of this resolution to Representative Kessler’s family as a token of the Wisconsin Legislature’s appreciation and respect.

SJR46,3,7 (end)