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 Grandsons, six Granddaughters and 3 great grandchildren. Jack was born in 1934, the son of John Edwin and Dolly Kistler. He entered the U.S., Army some 21 years later, a product of ROTC training at Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois where he also earned a BA degree in Business. An Infantry Officer by choice and training, Jack commanded platoon, company and battalion units in the United States and overseas. He also served with the 77th and 5th Special Forces Groups. Overseas assignments included Japan, Korea, Laos and Viet Nam (two tours). In addition to the Combat Infantryman's Badge and Master Parachutist Badge Jack's decorations and awards include the Silver Star, Legion of Merit (2), Bronze Star(3), Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with 'V' (5), Army Commendation Medal, the Republic of Viet Nam Gallantry Cross with Gold Star, and seven service medals/ribbons. Jack served God as well as his country. He had been a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hampton since 1974. There he served several times as Vestryman, Usher, Member and Chair of the Endowment Board, Lay reader, Chalicer and Lay Eucharistic Minister. Jack was also a frequent traveler with the Emmanuel Mission Team which, in addition to local work, travelled to Belize, West Virginia, New Orleans and New York providing new construction as required, or much needed clearing and reconstruction after natural disasters. A Memorial service will be held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 179 East Mercury Blvd., Hampton, VA at 1:00 pm Saturday June 23, 2018 with a reception immediately following in the parish hall. Memorial donations may be made to Emmanuel Episcopal Church Endowment fund.

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Published by Daily Press on Jun. 21, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for John Kistler

Sponsored by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home - Hampton.

10 Entries

Frederick (Rick) Bernard

August 5, 2024

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 better person for knowing Capt. John Kistler

Karen Mackey

June 13, 2023

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.

Charles Jeffery

December 19, 2018

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 lean. No matter, we got it done. Jack was always present when the troops were training, offering tips from his time at war (1st Infantry Division as I recall), inspiring the command to do better. Three other things I will remember Jack for: his signature (Tom Selleck) mustache, a god awful drink called a Mikalowski (consumed when initiated into the battalion) and his serving as father of the bride at my wedding. Needless to say, this was a command performance. Thank you Jack for starting many of us off right, for your service and for your friendship.

Cas Lehmkuhler

June 25, 2018

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

John Zacharias

June 24, 2018

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.

Karen Mackey

June 24, 2018

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.

Phil Pons

June 23, 2018

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 At Peace."
Be Thou at pease Jack, Well Done!

Anthony Burkhardt

June 21, 2018

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

Griffin

June 21, 2018

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.

Sue Kidd

June 20, 2018

I was so saddened to learn of Jacks death and my heart and prayers go out to Jan and the family. I first met Jack while working at Fort Monroe and then later as a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church. He was a witty man and always quick with a smile and a kind word. I know he will be dearly missed.

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