Kieth Hiesterman

What an amazing journey for Kieth Hiesterman, who traveled through our lives for nearly 96 years. Kieth lived life “large and in charge,” with a beautiful smile, a caring heart, a strong faith, and a good word—or joke—for everyone he met.

Kieth left us on Thursday, September 10, with his little wooden cross in his hand. He knew where he was headed...

His biggest fan—the absolute love of his life for 70 years—was Mim. There is no doubt she was the reason he stayed with us as long as he did. Although he could no longer find the words, that last smooch from Mim most definitely brought a sweet smile to his lips. Maybe that was all he needed to know it was okay to go home.

Kieth was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He worked hard at the business of life, and did it well. His life was rooted in family and faith—in showing up, keeping your word, doing your best, taking care of your people, praying daily, and finding plenty of reasons to laugh & celebrate along the way.

He set an incredible example for his seven grandchildren: Luke, Eli, and Noah Parsons, and Henry, Annie, Mae, and Rose Hiesterman. What a gift it was for them to know their grandfather--to learn & laugh with him, and to watch firsthand how he lived his life. There will be stories—lots of stories—and we have a feeling some will get a little better with each telling, just as any good fish story should. But beneath all those stories is something lasting: the example Kieth gave his family about what really matters in this life.

We hope you can join us on October 10th at 11:00 for a celebration of life at College Hill United Methodist Church where Kieth loved to sit on the front row of the contemporary service. In lieu of flowers you are invited to contribute to College Hill United Methodist Church as they continue to do a mighty work spreading the gospel and caring for our community. Please include “Kieth’s Memorial” in the memo, if you so choose to give.

With love & gratitude,

Mim Hiesterman
Peter Hiesterman
Susie (Hiesterman) Parsons-Brane