John was born in Lubbock, Texas on May 9, 1939, to his father Eugene Paul and Mother Mayce Joyce. He was the youngest of two sons. In the early years of his life, John lived in: New Mexico, California, Texas and then when he was in sixth grade his parents relocated the family to Rogers, Arkansas. It was there where he met his wife Ann and graduated from high school. His family owned a Dairy Queen, where he and his brother Bill worked many hours. John was involved in football, track, and boxing. At the end of high school, he enlisted into the Army National Guard, where he served until 1967.
During his time with the Army National Guard, John received his business degree from the University of Arkansas. John later went to George Washington University in Washington D.C., where he received his Masters Degree in Hospital Administration. John did his residency/ training at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Later he took a job as the Texas State Health Department Director.
During the years while living in Dallas, John accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1972. From that point on, John made a commitment to live for Christ and to raise his family up in the Lord. Together, John and Ann, had four amazing children that they loved dearly. In 1978, they moved their family to Independence, Missouri. Here he worked as the Business Administrator for the Kansas City Baptist Temple and three senior living homes. In 1988, John went into the insurance industry to do what he loved, helping the elderly make long term decisions. Once he retired, John treasured spending quality time with his family. He cherished watching his children and grandchildren grow up. He also spent a great deal of time hitting up a great card game with his amazing friends, as well as spent time traveling with family.
John lived a wonderful life that will forever be cherished by the lives he touched. John left behind his loving wife, Ann Kistler; Daughter, Cecilie Brower; Son, Tim Kistler and wife Beth; Daughter, Karen Dovel and husband Dennis; and Daughter, Judie Short and husband Rob. John had several grandchildren that he loved and cherished: Hayley Ward and husband Billy, Aaron Brower, Clarissa Kistler, Riley Eckley and husband Luke, Nolan Kistler, Easton Dovel, and Logan Dovel. John had the incredible blessing to become a Great-Grandad to two amazing little boys this past summer, William Ward and Lake Eckley. John had one brother, Doctor Bill Kistler and wife Emily. He had several Nieces and one Nephew on both sides of the family with multiple great nieces and great nephews. John will be forever loved and greatly missed. His memory will live on forever in those who knew and loved him.
A graveside service for John will be held Saturday, March 5, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Floral Hills East Mem Gardens, 25203 E US HIGHWAY 50, LEE'S SUMMIT, MO 64086.
Please bring a lawn chair if you would like to sit down during the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice in honor of John.
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