Robert Joseph Kistka

Robert Joseph Kistka, of Jackson, MI passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family in the evening hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025.  He was 92 years old.

Robert was born on May 16, 1933, the last of 15 children to parents, John and Helen Kistka. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served honorably in the Korean War. After returning from the service, he founded Kistka Electric, where his hard work and expertise as a master electrician earned him the respect of many in the Jackson community.

Robert was known for his big heart, his strong personality, his mischievous sense of humor, and his unforgettable, deep raspy chuckle. He was a man who spoke his mind freely and loved his family above all else. He also had a passion for gardening which was evident in the football-sized plot he cultivated, where he grew a variety of vegetables and the largest pumpkins possible for his grandchildren. When he wasn't tending his garden, he could be found in the kitchen, canning, baking, or making his famous Thanksgiving stuffing. His other interests included playing the penny slots with Shirley at the local casino and watching any boxing match, particularly with the legendary, Muhammad Ali.

In his later years, Robert was always available to lend a helping hand to his children with random remodeling projects around their homes. Lots of memories were also made as he traveled with them and his grandchildren to their favorite vacation destinations.

Robert looked forward to the quiet moments on his porch with his devoted wife, Shirley, watching the wildlife and whitetail deer in their 40 acre field. His final wish was to pass peacefully at his farmhouse, surrounded by his family, overlooking the land he loved. In a poignant farewell, as Robert took his last breaths, the field filled with an unprecedented number of deer, standing still and gazing at his home, as if to pay their respects.

Robert Joseph Kistka leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be forever missed.

He is survived by his beautiful wife of 69 years, Shirley Kistka (nee. Clark); his children, Lynn (Chris) Gleeson, Deena (Craig) Leighton, Cheryl (Skip) Spirito, and Robert John (Danelle) Kistka; his grandchildren, Lindsey (Nick) Fiedler, Zach (Felisha) Gleeson, Nate (Abbey) Gleeson, Grayson (Katie Francey) Brennan, Colton (Isabel) Brennan, Kiley (Greg Furlich) Spirito, Oliver Spirito, Lauren Kistka, Lena Kistka, Kyle (Heather) Leighton, and Eric (Katy) Leighton; his great-grandchildren, Lily, Paige, Finn and Harper Fiedler, Ella and Odyn Gleeson, Will Brennan, Vera, Jett and Paisley Leighton, as well as many nieces nephews, extended family members and close friends. Robert's family would like to say a special thank you to his dear friends, Jerry and Diane Bogdan.

Funeral services for Robert will be held at the Desnoyer Funeral Home, 204 N. Blackstone, Jackson, MI 49201 on Monday June 30, 2025 beginning at 1:00 PM with Father Robert Pienta officiating.  Friends and family may gather at the funeral home prior to the service from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.  Cremation will follow the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, Robert's family would ask that you enjoy life, embrace the moments, and spend time with your loved ones.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family Owned for 135 Years