Barbara Bliss Kistler

KISTLER, Barbara Bliss Portage Barbara Bliss Kistler, age 76 died December 2nd at her home, peacefully in her sleep. Her life work was helping children and animals. She was born in Villa Park, Illinois, one of five children to the parents of Clinton Farley Bliss and Evelyn Craig Bliss. In 1952 she graduated with a B.S. from Western Michigan University and continued post-graduate studies in Economics at Michigan State University. She taught Elementary School in the Kalamazoo Public Schools prior to raising her family. Her service to the community spanned over 50 years. She was involved with Pretty Lake Vacation Camp for over 30 years and served as Executive Director for 10 years. She was a member of the Service Club of Kalamazoo, sustaining member of Junior League and served on the Boards of The American Red Cross, Kalamazoo Humane Society and Pretty Lake Adventure Center. She is preceded in death by her former husband David Gene Kistler and daughter Kimberlee Gene Kistler. She is survived by two daughters, Susan Craig Schatz and Lisa Bliss Kistler, three grandchildren, Cecilia Marie Ramirez, Allegra Bliss Kistler Ellis and Antonia Lyell Kistler Ellis and one great grandchild, Gavin Kai Graves. Memorial donations may be made to Animal?s Best Friend Fund, Inc. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, 622 S. Burdick Street. Details of service date, time and location may be obtained by calling 343-1508.