John William Kerstetter Jr., 72, affectionately known as "Pa," passed away peacefully at Hospice of Randolph on June 7, 2026, after a courageous 13-year battle with multiple myeloma (bone cancer). He was born and raised in Westchester, PA to John William Kerstetter Sr. and Mildred E. Kerstetter (Walton). He retired his years as a long haul truck driver in Siler City, NC. 

Through years of treatment and physical challenges, he faced life with determination, grit, and a sense of humor that never left him; right down to the last chocolate ice cream cup he licked clean at the hospital with the personality of PeeWee Herman. 

A proud Veteran of the United States Army, John served his country honorably for eight years while stationed in Germany. He was known for his craftsmanship, resourcefulness, and willingness to help others in his healthy years and how his love for truck driving started. Whether tinkering with tools, building things, mowing grass, fishing, sharing stories, being goofy, or just spending time with family, he left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him. 

John leaves behind his wife, IdaMae Teufel Kerstetter, of the home; his stepdaughter, Tina Meeks (husband Tommy); and his son, Michael Huber. He also leaves behind his step-grandchildren, Alec Teufel and Brianna Meeks; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Bella Teufel Gonzalez. 

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, his sister Betty, cat Kiddy, his childhood companion Patches, and many of the servicemen with whom he proudly served during his years in the Army.

While his family will miss his stubborn ways, perhaps no one will feel his absence more than his faithful feline companion, Henry, who filled his heart these last several years during his battle. John's legacy lives on through the memories he created, the projects he built, the wisdom he shared, the relentless determination to survive, overcoming decades of alcoholism and smoking as he worked to give it his all to find the strength and gain peace for the way he loved his family and now he is reunited with those who have gone before him. 

Sunrise: May 7, 1954 

Sunset: June 7, 2026

 "Listen... if you're going to do it, do it my way!" A phrase that perfectly captures the man, the craftsman, and the legacy he leaves behind. 🇺🇸🐾❤️ 

He will be cremated as half of his ashes will remain with his wife and family. The other half will be buried with his parents in upstate, PA, allowing him to be with the two families he loved most.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Kerstetter family.

Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com