Obituaries
Merlin R. Kister, 75
October 23, 2016
Merlin R. Kister, 75, of Lancaster, PA, passed away on Sunday, October 23, 2016 after a long battle with cancer. He was the husband of Lydia Ciliberti Kister, with whom he shared 51 years of marriage this past June. Born in Somerset, PA, he was the son of the late Clifford J, Sr., and Ruth Garlitz Kister.
Merlin had spent his career in the food industry starting as production manager of Abbotts Dairies of Philadelphia and retiring as president of 3 Springs Water Co. in Laurel Run, PA. He was a 1963 graduate of Penn State University with a BS in Food and Dairy Science.
While he was an avid outdoorsman with hobbies that included hunting for deer and turkey, his biggest love was to spend time with his family and grandchildren. When he wasn’t at one of their sporting events, he could be found at Penn State football games or cheering for the Steelers on Sunday.
In addition to his wife, Lydia, he is survived by his 4 children: Cindy married to Robert Sickler of Lancaster, Merlin D. married to Kathi Kister of Portland, OR, Steven R. married to Julie Kister of Allentown, and Shawn M. married to Linette Kister of Nottingham; and by his 9 grandchildren: Michael, Matthew, Nicole, Ryan, Andrew, Ethan, Emily, Steven, and Laura.
Services were private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Merlin’s memory to the American Cancer Society, 314 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601.
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Condolences to the Family
February 24, 2017
Lee,
I was so shocked to hear of Merlin’s passing. I had no idea that he had been battling cancer. He was the best boss I ever had, he will be truly missed.
Laurie Owen, past President, 3 Springs Water
December 06, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Merlin Kister. The family is in my thoughts and prayers. Marion (Mokritsky) Bhatt
November 03, 2016
Dear Steve, Shawn, and Kister families,
We are so sorry to hear the passing of your dear Dad, Merlin. He was a part of our Penn State family and will truly be missed. We have such fond memories of our tailgating days with him, especially all the excellent advice he would give to JayPa. Our deepest sympathies and hugs being sent to you and your families.
Dianne and Doug Hand
November 02, 2016
Dear Kister Family,
I was so sorry to hear about the death of your beloved patriarch. I knew him through my friend, his son, Shawn, and I remember spending time with him at several family birthdays in Nottingham. I followed his long struggle through emails with Shawn — the ups, the downs, and the sad, final news. My condolences to you all. You are such a strong, loving family. May you find the strength to endure the grief you feel, and peace at the end of your journey to accept what is unacceptable. You are in my prayers and heart.
October 30, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Kister. I had worked with his wife and two of his children many years ago and I remember what a close knit and fun loving family they seemed to be. My condolences go out to his wife and family and all those affected by his passing. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. – Wallace J Huber
