Colonel John-Kistler-Obituary

Photo courtesy of R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home - Hampton

Colonel John S. "Jack" Kistler

Newport News, Virginia

1934 - 2018

About

DIED
June 15, 2018
LOCATION
Newport News, Virginia

Obituaries

Send Flowers

R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home - Hampton Obituary

Colonel John S. “Jack” Kistler departed this life on June 15, 2018. He is survived by Janice, his loving wife of 27 years. Other survivors include his son, John, daughter, Stephanie Olsen (Dennis), Stepsons, Alexander Costen, Michael Costen and Nicholas Costen (Heather) as well as four...

Read More

Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

I served with Capt "Jack" in B Co., 1st Bn, 60th Infanfantry, Ft Richardson, Alaska in 1964. I was a PFC when Capt. Kistler tapped me for his driver of his M-114 command vehicle. It was an honor to serve him. He respected his men and was always well received within the unit. His slogan "Can B Done" was painted on everything and became force that was known throughout Ft. Richardson. I had such a deep respect for Capt. Kistler. I would have followed him through hell and high water. I am a...

I think about Jack and how I used to see him at the commissary. I think about how he and my dad enjoyed each other’s company so much.
I think about how Jack visited my mom when she was in the nursing home. He was a nice and friendly man who thought of others and I miss seeing him.

LTC (at the time) Jack Kistler was my first battalion commander. We served in Alaska (1971-73) as members of the 1st Bn, 60th Infantry (Go Devils). And as others have said, Jack Kistler had a devilish sense of humor. As a young 2LT I enjoyed his leadership style. He was always positive, believed in hard work and hard play. And he was successful with the troops at a time when the Vietnam War was winding down, when the Army was dealing with race and drug problems and when budgets were...

Rest In Peace Jack. We enjoyed being your neighbor in Hampton and your friend for many years. Thank you for your Service to our Country. God Bless you. Naomi and Cas Lehmkuhler

I'm fortunate that I got to meet Colonel Kistler years ago through his son John. John is my fraternity brother and old roommate from college. He always talked highly of his father and I know John became a good and honorable man because of his father.

Jack has been a friend of my family for many years. Jack was such a great friend to my Dad Bill Spengler and great to both of my parents. He was always part of our family.
Jack always had a smile & a hug. He will be missed.
I send condolences to Jack's family.

I knew Jack for 56 years and served with and under him as an Infantry Soldier. We managed to keep in touch over the years.
Jack was a true friend. He was a great leader who was admired and loved by his troops. His quick wit and somewhat naughty sense of humor delighted his many friends. I shall miss Jack and I salute him.
I'd like to end with words from the Army Cadet Alma Mater:
"And when our work is done,
Our course on earth is run,
May it be said, 'Well Done;
Be Thou...

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

So sorry to hear about your loss. You know that God and Jesus are in the best position to comfort us when we lose a loved one in death.