Lois B. Kist

1936 - 2026

Lois Bernadette Kist (née Grzanke), age 89, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly. She was born on October 10, 1936, and lived a life defined by kindness, faith, devotion, and quiet strength.

Lois was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, Clifford F. Kist, who passed on August 3, 2018. Together, they built not only a life, but a legacy rooted in family, hard work, and love.

Lois is survived by her two children, Bonita Sue Diedling (Christopher) and Clifford Mark Kist (Sherri); her grandchildren, Christopher Diedling (Cassandra), Sarah Beimly (Giovanni), Adam Kist, and Alex Kist; and her great-grandson, Liam Beimly. To her grandchildren, Lois was lovingly known as “Gran.”

Lois was an incredibly kind soul, gentle, steadfast, and selfless. She poured her whole heart into raising her family. Her grandchildren spent much of their childhood at her home; she waited for them as they got off of the school bus, fed, cared for, and loved unconditionally. From the time they were babies, 

Gran sang to them, nurtured them, and gave them a sense of safety and belonging that never faded.

For well over a half-century, Lois worked side by side with her husband in the family business, Kist Gardens & Greenhouses, on Day Road and at the historic Findlay Market in Over-the-Rhine. She loved gardening and flowers, especially pansies. On Saturday mornings, she could be found at her farm stand, warmly connecting with market-goers, many of whom became lifelong friends. Her presence, gentle smile, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Lois was a devout Catholic and faithfully attended Sunday Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Her faith was lived more than spoken, shown through her patience, generosity, and unwavering love for her family.

Although Lois will be deeply missed, her family takes great comfort in knowing she lived a long, full life surrounded by love, purpose, and faith. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, the traditions she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness.

Visitation will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 5361 Dry Ridge Road (45252), on Friday January 23, 2026 from 10:00 AM until time of the  Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Burial St. James Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home is honored to serve the family. www.mrfh.com