06/09/2026
Born August 14, 1940 in Hubbard, Oregon, Robert Fred Fessler passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born to Raymond and Clara Fessler and graduated from Mt. Angel Prep High School. He grew up on the family farm which created his love of farming. After high school, Bob spent time serving in the National Guard.
In 1958, he met his future wife, Martha “Jean” Coleman from St. Paul, Oregon. They married on October 28, 1961 and together, they raised five children. Shortly after their marriage, Bob and Jean started Fessler Farms raising hazelnuts, cane berries and mink. In 1968, they started Woodburn Nursery growing azaleas and later adding outdoor nursery stock. Bob was involved in the day-to-day operations which showed in his love for farming and plants. He was always looking for the next best innovation in the horticultural industry. He was never shy about getting his hands dirty and was quick to lend a helping hand. He had a very strong work ethic, which showed in his businesses. He was very proud of the fact that his family businesses have been carried on to not only to the 2nd generation, but the 3rd generation as well.
Bob had a great sense of humor and always seemed to make others laugh. Bob and Jean enjoyed travelling many parts of the world with friends and family. Many lifetime friendships were made with employees, customers and fellow nurserymen and farmers within the industries.
Faith was very important in Bob’s life and passing this on to his children and grandchildren was a priority for him. Bob was very humble and kind, always giving and expecting nothing in return. He also believed in giving back to the communities and organizations that have supported him. He volunteered for many years and was active in his church, St. Mary Catholic Church. He was also a member of Oregon Association of Nurseries. Many years were spent volunteering for the Oktoberfest. He also served on the following boards: Mt. Angel School, St. Mary’s Church, Mt. Angel Community Foundation and NORPAC. Together, Bob and Jean earned many awards and recognition in their local communities: Mt. Angel 1st Citizen Award, Mt. Angel Business of the Year Award, Woodburn Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Farmer, Silver Spirit Award (Legacy Silverton Hospital), and were inducted into the OAN Hall of Fame in 2019.
Bob loved farming, but he also loved fishing, crabbing, clam digging and hunting. He was also very active in his children’s lives. Bob and Jean took their children on many camping/fishing trips. He attended many of their school and sporting events. He also loved to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events and was a big fan of the Oregon State Beavers.
Bob was married to Jean for 58 years before her passing in December 2019. He is survived by his children: Tom (Debbie) Fessler, Rick (Melanie) Fessler, Karen (Ross) Jaeger, Sandy (Greg) Traeger and Jodi (Lance) Arritola. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves behind his siblings, Ken Fessler and Donna Wagner. Along with his wife, Jean, he was also preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Clara Fessler and sister Ede Hopkins.
A rosary will be held Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 7:00 pm with mass of Christian burial Friday, June 12, 2026 at 11:00am — both held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Mt. Angel. A special thank you for all the love and support during his last few months and to the staff at Mt. Angel Towers and Serene Gardens — your support has been a blessing to his family. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, Mt. Angel, Oregon.
