C. Richard Kistner, 89, passed away peacefully at is home at Eagle Crest South, on July 10, 2026, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, under hospice care. He was born December 16, 1936, in Cincinnati, Ohio, a son of the late Harold and Bertha Kistner.

Richard earned his bachelor degrees from Carthage College in Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. He then earned his master degree in Chemistry from University of Iowa, followed by his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry.

For over 36 years, Richard was a Chairman and Professor of Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse and finished his last year at UWL as the interim Dean for the College of Science and Allied Health. In 1998, Richard was awarded the Chancellor’s Award, at U.W. La Crosse.

Richard, always said he had lived a full and meaningful life. He was a devoted husband, is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Kathleen Amalie Shannon Kistner. A loving father to his daughter, Amalia ( Brett) Oleson of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. A cherished papa to two wonderful grandchildren, Mitchell (Kim) Oleson of Buchanan, Michigan and Brooke Oleson of Essexville, Michigan, whom he shared a close bond. A true big brother to his surviving sister Anita Nitzsche of Bloomingdale, Illinois.

In addition to his parents was preceded in death by his sister Margery Maurer, and brother David Kistner.

Contributions in his memory may be made to C.R. and K.S. Kistner Family Endowment for Chemistry at U. W. La Crosse, U.W.L. Foundation, or Gundersen Health Foundation.

Condolences may be made at CouleeCremation.com