R. Paul Kerstan

R. Paul Kerstan, 81, passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service, devotion, faith, and love. A proud Vietnam veteran, devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Paul lived his life according to the principles he held most dear: God, country, and family.

Paul dedicated much of his life to serving the nation he loved. As a member of the United States Navy Seabees, he proudly served during the Vietnam War and continued his military career until his retirement, having achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer (E-7). His commitment to public service extended beyond the military through his work with the United States Department of State Foreign Service.

Throughout his life, Paul carried with him the values instilled through his years of service: honor, integrity, loyalty, and an unwavering sense of duty. He was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), maintaining a lasting connection to the military community. Paul was also a dedicated supporter of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), reflecting his compassion and love for animals.

While Paul's service to his country was a source of tremendous pride, his greatest devotion was to the people he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Kerstan; his daughters, Tara Kerstan of North Carolina and Larissa Kerstan of Albuquerque, New Mexico; and his cherished grandchildren, Stephanie Kerstan, Asia Fennel, Autumn Olson, and Noah Gregory, all of Virginia; Shaelah Gregory of North Carolina; and Violet Kimbrell of Albuquerque. He also leaves behind his treasured great-grandchildren, Tilly of Virginia and Deegan of North Carolina.

Paul was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Lisa Kerstan, who passed away in 2022.

Above all, Paul was a man who believed deeply in the meaning of a promise.

Throughout his years of military and government service, he took the solemn oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States on multiple occasions. To Paul, those words were never simply a formality. They represented a lifelong commitment to something greater than himself.But there was another oath Paul made, one that carried just as much meaning and perhaps even greater importance. It was the promise he made to his family.

He promised to protect them, to care for them, and to do everything within his power to ensure they were safe, supported, and, above all, loved.

It was a promise he carried throughout his life, demonstrated not only in the words he spoke but in the countless ways he showed his devotion to those who meant the most to him.

And for those who loved Paul, there is comfort in believing that his promise did not end with his passing.

Just as he faithfully served his country and devoted his life to protecting his family, his love will continue to watch over them for all eternity.

Paul's life was one of purpose, sacrifice, and steadfast love. His legacy will live through the family he cherished, the lives he touched, and the values he so faithfully upheld.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the love he gave, the promises he kept, and the example he set will remain forever.

"Fair winds and following seas, Chief. Your watch is complete, your duty faithfully fulfilled, and your love will remain our guiding light."