Richard L. Kistler

Maggie Valley, Richard Lee Kistler, age 89, passed away on Friday, June 16, 2023 at Mission Hospital.

Born in South Dakota to a big family, he was a son of the late Milo Kistler and Grace McManus Kistler.  He was preceded in death by one sister and two brothers.

Richard proudly served in the U.S. Army.  After his tour of duty, he had a successful 52-year career in the nursing home industry.  A goal-oriented, respected leader, Richard retired as CEO of Comprehensive Healthcare.  This member of Maggie Valley County Club and St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church was a man of many interests.  He was a wine connoisseur, ardent reader, and enjoyed travel.  An avid golfer, Richard enjoyed nothing more than being outside hitting fairways and greens.  If he was not out golfing, he was watching or listening to it.  It does seem fitting that the timing of Richard’s passing will always be associated with the US Open golf championship.

Richard is survived by his dear wife of 37 years, Barbara Hill Kistler; daughter, Karen Miller of Lenexa, Kansas; two sons, Mark Kistler (Robin) of Lake Quivira, Kansas and Matt Kistler (Jennifer) of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; sister, Mary Lou Neville; three brothers, Gene, Pat, and Jerry Kistler; 13 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

A gathering of friends and family will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.  Entombment will be in Sarasota, Florida.

Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Waynesville, 305 N. Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786.