About Us

Frank L. Keszei (Kays' eye) purchased Essling funeral home in August of 2014 after the unexpected death of Mark E. Essling.  Frank brings 41 years of experience to LaPorte and the surrounding communities.  

Frank graduated from Riley High School, South Bend, Indiana in 1978 and began his funeral career with the former Forest G. Hay Funeral Home during his freshman year at Holy Cross College, Notre Dame, Indiana.  He continued his education at Indiana State University and Mid-America College of Funeral Service where he graduated class Salutatorian in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science Degree.  

Frank is married to Susan J. (Gregg) and they have three children, Adam, Andrea, and Addyson.  Sue taught 6th grade at LaSalle Academy in South Bend, Indiana and was formerly a senior analyst with The Associate Corporation.  On Christmas day 2014 their son, Adam was in a terrible car accident that has left him a paraplegic. Sue retired early from teaching to care for Adam and oversee his medical treatment and rehabilitation.  She services as the vice president of the funeral home. 

Frank’s parents Elizabeth and Louis Keszei raised four sons in South Bend where Louie was a deputy health officer for 41 years and Liz a homemaker and artist.  Frank’s grandparents all immigrated to America from Hungary.  His maternal grandparents, Elizabeth (Szabo) and Andy Toth lived in South Bend where he attended The University of Notre Dame and Cornell University and became a successful Architect in Northern Indiana.  His paternal grandparents, Matilda (Horvath) and Vincent Keszei owned and operated Vincent’s Tavern/Restaurant in South Bend’s Hungarian neighborhood.  

Frank and Susan are former members of St. Matthew Cathedral Catholic church where Frank served as president of the St. Matthew School Board.  He was past President of the Northern Indiana Funeral Directors Association, a member of the Indiana Funeral Directors Association, the National Funeral Directors Association, the NRA, and is involved with many charitable causes.  Frank, Sue and their son, Adam are members of Holy Family Parish, La Porte. Frank is also a member of the Knights of Columbus St. Micheal Council #1542.

“I consider my profession an honor and privilege.”