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.