Obituary of Walter Kiesz

Walter Kiesz, 89, passed peacefully to his rest Thursday, January 19th. He was born in Eureka, South Dakota on May 27, 1916, to Philip and Katherine Kiesz. In 1934 he and his family moved to Lodi. While working at Schlotthauer's grocery store, he met the love of his life, Elsie Niessner. They were married in 1937. Early in life, Walter began his love of music, mastering both the piano and organ. He graduated from the University of the Pacific with a B.A. Degree in education and from Sacramento State College with an M.A. Degree in music education. He taught several grade levels in the Lodi Unified School District for 25 years. The final 12 years of his teaching career were at Senior Elementary where he taught music. He also taught night classes in music at Delta College for 20 years. At times through the years he also taught private piano lessons. He served as an organist for the Fairmont Seventh-day Adventist Church for 67 years and Zion Reformed Church for 47 years. At various times he also served as choir director in both churches. Over the years he played the organ for countless weddings and funerals and for 15 years he gave weekly presentations of organ or piano music for the residents of Vienna Convalescent Hospital. Walter and Elsie had the privilege of traveling to every continent in the world except Antarctica. They often led tour groups on various trips. Walter loved God, his family, his church and his music. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by Elsie, his beloved wife of 68 years, his daughter, Marilyn Carr of Lodi, grandson Chip Carr of Yakima, Washington, grandson, Craig Carr and his wife Carisa of Savannah, Georgia and 3 great-grandchildren. Walter was preceded in death by 6 brothers. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 26th at the Fairmont Seventh-day Adventist Church. Committal will be private. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Wednesday at Lodi Funeral Home.