Donald Ray Kiser, age 82, died peacefully at the home he loved on October 5, 2026. Don was born on June 6, 1944, to parents Henry and Eleanor Kiser.

A member of Bethel Lutheran Church, he previously served on the church council, taught an adult Sunday School class, was a member of the Cemetery Committee, and a youth leader. He was a charter member of the Tryon Optimist Club, as they worked hard to bring youth sports to the children in the Tryon community. He coached baseball and basketball for many years and had a great love for youth sports. Don retired from Great Dane and his own company, Gaston Mobile PM Services. A farmer at heart, he loved planting large gardens and having vegetables to give to others. He loved jigsaw puzzles and wood working. A big Atlanta Braves fan, he never wanted to miss a game.

He is preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Steve Stinnette; and his beloved pet, Chloe.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Elaine; children, Wendy Stinnette, Jody Kiser and wife, Sherry, and Lori Jandreau and husband, Kirt; grandchildren, Katie and Josh Williams, Luke and Sierra Kiser, Levi and Anna Kiser, Kiser Merrow, Boston Merrow, Henry Merrow, and Adeline Merrow; great-grandchildren, Turner and Stevie Williams, Montana, Dakota, and Jackson Kiser, and Cannon Kiser; sisters, Patricia Garrett, and Shirley and Butch Gunckle; High School Friends from the Class of 1962 that he was very close to; and his church family, who have been prayer warriors during the past year.

The family will receive friends at Bethel Lutheran Church on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 1:00 PM until 2:30 PM. A Graveside Service will follow at 3:00 PM, in the church cemetery, with Rev. Steven King officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethel Lutheran Church Cemetery Fund – 509 Long Shoals Rd, Lincolnton, NC 28092.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and love to all for their support shown to them during Don’s illness, and especially to his great hospice nurses.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com