Delores “Dee” Kistler Remembered for Lifelong Love and Legacy

Delores “Dee” Elaine Kistler passed away on January 24, 2026, at the age of 92, just hours before her husband, David N. Kistler. The couple, who shared a remarkable bond over their 70 years of marriage, lived together at the Lutheran Home at Topton in Pennsylvania.

Born in Quakertown, Pennsylvania, Dee was the only child of the late Elsie E. and Morris Miller. She grew up in Coopersburg, where she and David began their lifelong friendship while attending grade school. Their journey together took them to various locations across Pennsylvania, including Claysburg, Shamokin Dam, and Bainbridge. They eventually settled in the Blue Mountains near the Appalachian Trail, where they built their own house.

Dee graduated from Coopersburg High School in 1951 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Cedar Crest College in 1956. Her passion for education led her to obtain a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Kutztown University in 1980. After dedicating many years to her role as a librarian for the Tulpehocken Area Elementary schools, she retired in 1998.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dee was known for her love of animals, particularly dogs, and was an avid reader and talented pianist. She enjoyed hiking and traveling the world, but her greatest joy came from spending quality time with her family.

Dee is survived by her four children: Mary Jane Doney (James) of Leesport, Catherine Ann Vana of Colorado Springs, Michael Kistler (Karen) of Austin, Texas, and Elizabeth Silady (James) of Hillsborough, New Jersey. She was a beloved grandmother to eight grandchildren and a proud great-grandmother to three.

Memorial services will take place on February 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at 99 Church Street, Hamburg, Pennsylvania. A visitation will precede the service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Arrangements are being handled by Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc. in Hamburg. For those wishing to extend their condolences, an online guestbook is available at www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com. Dee Kistler’s life was marked by love, friendship, and an unwavering dedication to her family, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.