Resident of Napa

Richard “Dick” Kistner, born in Janesville, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. PST, surrounded by the love of his family.

Dick grew up during the Great Depression and war years, a time when his family faced economic challenges that often required moving to find work opportunities. His transitory upbringing led him to attend 14 different schools in 12 years, from Catholic schools in Detroit to Darien High School, where he met the love of his life and classmate, Henrietta “Hank” Koehl. Despite the hardships, Dick graduated from high school in aclass of 15, proudly wearing a$20 suit, receiving his diploma along with an athletic medal that reflected his perseverance and dedication. Dick and Hank graduated together, starting a lifelong partnership that spanned over 77 years of marriage.

After graduation, Dick moved to California, where Hank joined him to start their family.

Although he was accepted to the University of California, Berkeley, fondly known as “Cal,” financial constraints prevented him from attending. Undeterred, Dick’s grit and resourcefulness led him to work a series of odd jobs to support his growing family—from working at the meat market his father ran, to moving furniture, laboring on the railroad, and even driving a toy truck to deliver toys. Eventually, he found his true calling as a State Farm Agent, building a successful 36-year career. His State Farm office on San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley became a mainstay in the community, a legacy that remains strong to this day.

Dick and Hank raised their nine children—Mary Bitzer, Michael Kistner, Susan McKinney, Jeanne Kistner, John Kistner, Denise Lewis, Nancy Kistner, Cheryl Radich, and Therese Martinez with strong values rooted in faith and family. Every Sunday, all nine children sat together in a pew at Mass, learning the importance of Catholicism, service, and community. Dick also gave his time generously to volunteering. As a Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus, he led and participated in numerous charitable activities, reflecting his deep commitment to service and faith. He was also an active member of the West Berkeley Lions Club, serving as President and Deputy District Governor, contributing to pancake breakfasts, crab feeds, and running the snack bar at Cal Berkeley football games.

An enthusiast of classic cars, Dick had apassion for Model A’s. He and Hank were founding members of the Lake County A’s. Dick also loved his classic Chris-Craft boat, which he used to teach all nine of his children how towaterski in Clearlake, where the family spent their summers a testament to his adventurous spirit and dedication to creating lasting family memories. In retirement, Dick and Hank spent many fun times on road trips riding their Honda Gold Wing motorcycle. Additionally, their favorite pastime was golf. Dick was an active member of the SIRS golf organization, and they enjoyed many golf trips with friends through their retirement years.

Dick and Hank’s legacy spans 4 generations, including 21 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. His life was a reflection of integrity, hard work, and devotion to his family, church, and community. Dick’s gentle spirit, warm smile, and ability to connect with everyone he met will be cherished by all who knew him.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Apollinaris Catholic Church in Napa, CA, at 11:00 a.m. on January 4, 2025, with a reception to follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that acts of kindness be done in Dick’s honor, reflecting the love and compassion he shared throughout his lifetime. Donations can also be made to his and Hank’s favorite church: Queen of Peace Catholic Church 14435 Uhl Avenue Clearlake, CA 95422 707.994.6618 The family invites you to share tributes and memories of Dick on the Tulocay Cemetery website at tulocaycemetery.org