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John N. Kistka passed away from an unexpected heart attack on 6.17.22 at the age of 79 surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. His laughter and jokes were well known; and he didn’t have to be seen to be heard. His work ethics and his faith were an inspiration to his family.
John was born on March 28, 1943 in Jackson Michigan and was the son of John and Agnes Kistka. He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Marcia ( Pancerz ) Kistka, loving children Corey ( Kristine ) Kistka, Colette ( George ) Smojver, and Eric Kistka; cherished grandchildren John C. Kistka, Cameron Kistka, Natia Smojver, Dominic Smojver, and Karina Smojver; siblings Patricia Miskowski, Judith Giluk, Daniel ( Mary ) Kistka, Bernadette ( Gary ) Matz, William Kistka, Kenneth ( Barb Bendele ) Kistka. Preceded in death by John and Agnes Kistka, Gerald Miskowski, Richard Giluk.
John graduated from Jackson High School where he then enlisted in the Navy and served our Nation until December of 1966. He started his first job at Clark Equipment. From there he went on to work at LuPaul Tool and Die Industries for close to 45 years. John’s pride was in his hard work, loyalty, commitment, and getting the job done. From there he continued to work odd jobs and dedicated his life to fixing things and helping others whenever and wherever he could.
Being active was his life. He did not like to sit still. He loved mowing the lawn, rebuilding a 1932 Ford, working on house projects, helping his family and friends build, fix, repair or maintain anything that they needed help with. He enjoyed being at the lake, slot machines, Friday Lotto tickets, car shows, telling stories, cracking jokes, and laughing. His happiest times were spending time with his family, friends and grandchildren.
A funeral service honoring John’s life will be on Friday, June 24, 2022 at 11:00am at St John Catholic Church, 711 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr, Jackson, MI 49201 with Pastor Jim Shaver. Family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, June 23, 2022 from 4-8 pm with a Vigil Service at 7 pm at the Watson Funeral Chapel, 2950 Spring Arbor Rd, Jackson, MI and one half hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice or feel free to make someone laugh or do something nice for someone.
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