Douglas C. Kistle of Franklin, N.J., entered God’s heavenly kingdom after passing peacefully at home on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020, with his loving family by his side. He was 81.
He was born in Franklin on Oct. 18, 1938, to Joseph and Gladys Kistle of Cornwall, England.
Doug graduated from Franklin High School. As a stipulation by his mother-in-law before marrying, he was required to have a full-time job, so he started working at Howmet in Dover, N.J., a job that lasted over 40 years. His proudest accomplishment was working on the engines for the F22 Raptor fighter jet.Doug was truly a “good Samaritan.” He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church and St. Francis de Sales Church, where he helped start the Emmaus men’s group developing a community of faith and friendship.
Doug tirelessly served his hometown of Franklin in many capacities, eventually becoming mayor from January 2004 to December 2007. He was passionate about revitalizing Franklin and providing growth and employment opportunities. He is fondly remembered for his caring heart and his warm smile.
After 70 years, he and Mary moved to Smyrna, Delaware, on their 50th anniversary. Doug served his new community as president of the community HOA and was an active member of St. Polycarp Roman Catholic Church and the local golf club.
He is pre-deceased by his parents; brother, Bill; and sister Gloria.
Doug was married 61 years to Mary (Carlin) Kistle and is survived by his son, Douglas and daughters, Karen and Donna; sons-in-law Steven Bennett and Fred Latteri; grandsons, Brandon, Jonathan, Christopher, and Joseph; granddaughters, Ana and Amber; great-grandson Brecken; and brother Joe Kistle.
Visitation was held Sept. 13 at the F. John Ramsey Funeral Home, Franklin. A Funeral Mass was held Sept. 14 at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Franklin. Entombment in the Immaculate Conception Mausoleum followed. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the “Hospice of Delaware (Kent County).”