You wrote:

It does sound like the panel (keypad), Item 1 in the "Control panel" section is going.
The tech sheet shows how to check it with a meter.

Could also be that one of the door switches is just making and pushing on the panel shuts the door enough to activate the switch.

I would try the following first in case pushing hard on the panel is moving the ribbon cable enough to get the unit going.
Unplug the unit
Open it up
Remove the ribbon cable from the keypad to the control board at the control board.
Clean the edge connector.
If it is the type where there is not a connector just the insulation is removed, it can be cleaned with a pencil eraser. Do not use an ink eraser as it is too abrasive.
Check the tracks in the ribbon cable for hairline cracks. A magnifying glass helps here.
Would not hurt to clean the connector on the board. Use electronics contact cleaner or isopropyl alcohol and a tooth brush. Be gentle and do not reconnect till all the solvent evaporates.
Reconnect everything and give it a try.

Did what you suggested, I can't help thinking the door latch may be involved because all prompts work on the control panel with the exception on the start. The start will work if I open and close the door a few times and push very hard on the start. Do you still suggest replacement of the control panel or could this be the door latch??