Richard D. Kistler

Richard D. Kistler

Richard D. Kistler

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Richard D. Kistler of Lehighton on Feb. 7, 2023, at the age of 76. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many.

Richard was born on Dec. 1, 1946, to Charles and Hattie Kistler of Mahoning Valley who taught him to be a hardworking man of many talents.

For many years he worked building bridges with various companies including Number 1 Construction, Wagman Construction and Baseline Construction.

In his younger years, he enjoyed farming, hunting, fishing, NASCAR, social events at the Elks club, bowling, darts, and spending time with friends and family. He shared his carpentry skills with many loved ones through the years by helping them with home projects. In his retirement, Rick became an excellent home cook and showered his family and friends with lots of delicious food. He enjoyed watching westerns and socializing at the Orioles, Lehighton Fire Company and Beaver Run Rod and Gun Club.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Connie; as well as daughters, Sherry Paules (Tom) and Teresa Fowler (Russ); beloved grandchildren, Nathan Fowler (Edessa), Becca Forte (Jake), Benjamin Fowler (Karly), Alivia Paules and Alejo (Ford) Bair; brothers and sisters, Charles (Derue), Grace Neifert (Skip), Bruce (Allane), and Ginny Fairchild; and sister-in-law, Dena Kistler.

Two brothers, Robert and Jeffrey, preceded him in death.

Uncle Rick had many, many nieces and nephews who loved him as well. Family was not defined by blood to Rick; spouses, in-laws, and friends became family once he knew you.

Service: A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, at 11 a.m. at Schaeffer Funeral Home, 300 Alum St., Lehighton. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30-11 a.m. After the service, the family invites friends and family to celebrate Rick's life at a luncheon at Beaver Run Gun Club where he was a member for 55 years.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions in Rick's memory be made to Lehighton or Mahoning Valley Fire companies in honor of their efforts in the 2013 fire of their home. Contributions could also be made to any church or charity of your choice.

Schaeffer Funeral Home, Lehighton, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements and online condolences may be made at schaefferfunerals.com