Charles “Chuck” Phillip Kerstiens was born on January 1st, 1944, in Denver, Colorado to parents John and Mary Kerstiens and passed away on May 20th, 2025. He was the oldest of two boys, Jack being his younger brother. He grew up working alongside his Dad on the family ranch in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. This is where he met and married Sally in 1964. From that marriage they had 3 boys Shane, Kelly and Edward. They moved to Isabel in 1969 where they continued farming and ranching. Shane passed away in 1997 and Sally in 2002. Chuck and the other boys continued growing and developing the ranch.
Although he came from humble roots, he had a strong drive to succeed. He loved and served the community he lived in. He was active on many boards and committees and was a vital member of the rural neighborhood.
Trading help was a common practice and Chuck always looked forward to helping neighbors. He never met a stranger and was a friend to all. He connected through stories and memories and would often share his knowledge with family, friends and neighbors.
In 2016 he married Kaletta Rollins. Through Kaletta, Chuck welcomed many bonus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. The two enjoyed working together and truly helped each other grow. Through the last decade Chuck’s faith in the Lord strengthened. He was a firm believer in God. Together they continued ranching until 2024 when they sold the ranch, retired and moved to Sheridan, Wyoming.
Charles “Chuck” Kerstiens is preceded in death by his parents John and Mary, stepfather Bob Young, wife Sally, son Shane Kerstiens, Shane’s wife Dee (Clown) Kerstiens, and bonus granddaughter Tori Lynn Rollins.
He is survived by his wife Kaletta, son Kelly Kerstiens and his children Paige (Tali) Fast Wolf and Chauncey Kerstiens. Son Ed Kerstiens and his children Koda Kerstiens and Kale Kerstiens, and son Shane’s children Gray Kerstiens and Jill Kerstiens. His stepchildren Carmen (Jim) Arzy, Kim (Charley) Collins and Justin (Elaine) Rollins. His brother Jack Kerstiens and his children Keri (Lex) Palmer, Casey (Carrie) Kerstiens and John (Megan) Kerstiens, as well as numerous bonus grandchildren, nieces and nephews and great grandchildren, great nieces and nephews.
He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
There will be a Celebration of Life at the Isabel Center June 6th, 2025, from 11am to 4pm for all to come and share stories and memories in celebration of Chuck’s life.
A private graveside gathering will be held at the Thunder Butte Cemetery for family and friends at a later date.
Memorials to honor Chuck may be sent to the Isabel Rodeo Association, PO Box 372, Isabel, S.D., 57633.
Online condolences may be made to www.sheridanfuneral.com. Arrangements are under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home.
