Arthur Frank Kiisel Obituary (1936 - 2009)

There are no words. A loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Arthur Frank (Art) Kiisel slipped quietly away in the arms of the one he loved most, his companion for over 54 years, Rhea (Matthews) on March 11, 2009. The son of Arnold William Kiisel and Cora Elizabeth Clair, Art was introduced to the world on November 16, 1936 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Spending much of his childhood with “Cute Grandma,” and his grandmother Olivia Rasmussen Clair, he was a typical boy who spent time swimming in the canal and getting into mischief. Art enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1956 and served his country with honor from 1956 to 1961—continuing to serve in the U.S. Naval Reserve until 1976. Prior to joining the Navy, he was a member of the Utah Air National Guard. Owner of the family business, A & T Bolt, he has been a mentor and father figure to many of the young men who worked with him. His unique ability to unconditionally love is reflected in the relationships he shared with his family, his employees, and his friends. An avid fisherman, most weekends Art could be found on the lake with his dearest friends, catching fish and telling stories of the one that got away. An adopted “grandpa” by the children of the neighborhood, Art’s home was often filled with the laughter of little children. Survived by his eternal companion, Rhea, son Ty Kiisel (Sue), daughter Lory VanValkenburg (John), daughter Janine Zumwalt, eleven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren—with another on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepparents, Ralph and Ida Burrows. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, funeral services will be held at the River Ridge 6th Ward on 10124 South 1300 West on March 14, 2009, at 1:00 pm. A brief viewing will be held in the meetinghouse 45 minutes prior to the service. The family would like to express their special thanks to Jerry Smith, a wonderful friend and devoted Home Teacher who spent time with Dad every day—and Jason and Brenna Cosky, kind and loving neighbors who’s family became a big part of their lives and never missed an opportunity to love and serve.