Floyd Dean “Pap” Kistler, 88, of Valparaiso, formerly of Lowell, passed away on Friday, June 16, 2023 at Aviva of Valparaiso.
He was born on November 21, 1934 in Winamac, IN to the late Floyd Elroy and Letha Marie [Stewart] Kistler. Dean grew up on a dairy farm and attended Fairview School. He graduated from Star City High School in 1952 where he was a Yell Leader.
After high school, Dean enlisted in the US Air Force. He served four years at Greenville Air Force Base in Mississippi where he received laboratory technician training. Dean made many lifelong friends during his time in the service. After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned to Indiana. He continued his military service in the US Air Force Reserve until 1963.
Dean founded the Crown Point Clinical Laboratory which he operated for nearly 40 years. He was truly a pioneer in his industry. Dean made his home in Lowell where he became an active member of Indian Trail Grange #2361. He served as the President of Indiana Grange for over a decade. He cherished the relationships he made while active in the Grange.
Dean was a man with diverse hobbies and interests. He enjoyed music of all kinds. He could play any song on the piano “by ear” and had a beautiful singing voice. Dean was fascinated with the old west. He enjoyed numerous trips to Wyoming, especially attending the Cody Rodeo. Dean loved the outdoors, especially vegetable gardening and bird watching. He canned his own vegetables for numerous years. He was a talented cook and baker. Dean valued trips to Turkey Run State Park (with anyone who would go with).
Dean was very kind and generous. He was always committed to his family who lovingly called him Pap. He had a big heart and held on to all that mattered most to him.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Aviva and Dunes Hospice for their tender and passionate care of Uncle Pap.
He is survived by:
Numerous Nieces and Nephews (and their families)
Preceded in death by:
Floyd Elroy and Letha Marie [Stewart] Kistler, Parents
Garnet Emma Rearick, Sister
Lee Grant Kistler, Brother
Esther Denelia Hayes, Sister
Grace Thelma Straw, Sister
Thale Mae Feltis, Sister
Lura Elnora Feltis, Sister
Helen Marie Brown, Sister
Doris Baggerley, Sister
Kenneth Keith Kistler, Brother
Janetta Jane Grice, Sister
2 Nephews and 2 Nieces
Visitation will be from 11 AM - 1 PM EDT Friday, June 23, 2023 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.
Funeral Services will be held at 1 PM EDT Friday, June 23, 2023 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN with Rev. Edward Clark officiating.
Burial will take place at Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) in Winamac, IN. The American Legion and VFW will conduct Military Graveside Services.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Indian Trail Grange or Dunes Hospice.
Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.
