Sylvester “Sam” Arthur MESTLER
72, of Burien, died July 13, 2004. He was born April 27, 1932 in Rochester, NY, where he attended Hilton High School. Sam otherwise known as “Slick”, by his fellow class mates was a varsity baseball player. After graduation in 1950 he entered military life and was immediately assigned to Korea. Sam met and married the love and focus of his life, Setsuko while assigned to Japan. Sam spent the next 23 years in continuous active duty which included two tours in Vietnam. He was awarded four Bronze Stars, Vietnam Medal of Gallantry, United Nation Peace Keeper, and numerous other medals for his service. He Retired from the US Army in 1972 at the rank of Master sergeant. After retiring he went back to school where he received an associate degree from Highline Commuinity College. Sam later went on to retire from Sears & Roebuck, and Boeing. He had a great passion for learning and was able to teach himself many new things, from an extensive knowledge of computers to the repairing of antique pocket watches. He will be dearly missed by those who loved him. He is survived by loving wife Setsuko, two sons Scott & Dale, two daughters, Christine & Denise, and two grandaughters Casey & Jamie. Also surviving are two brothers Lynn & Merton, and sister Sadie. Graveside Services were held at 1:00PM, Tuesday, July 20, 2004 at Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 240th St., Kent, WA 98042. Arrangements entrusted to Bonney-Watson Funeral Chapel, 900 SW 146th, Burien, WA 98166. 206.244.2320. Please see online memorial at bonneywatson.com.
My deepest sympathy to the entire Mestler family. I met Sam and the Mestler family pets included through my friend, Denise. It was a priviledge to meet Sam, as he was so welcoming, friendly and it was very apparent he was passionate about his lovely Family. I will remember him because he reminded me of my own Dad. He liked bargains, like my own self and my Dad did too. He was into ‘show and tell’ and showed me some of his pocket watch collection. My dad also admired pocket watches, so I was always interested in what Sam had to share. He was a generous man who sent me home with grapefruits and a paper shredder. He thought it was a good idea to shred all of my credit info. Very thoughtful. Random Acts of Kindness. I tagged along with Denise on occasions, happy to stop by at the Mestler’s and say Hi. He was always very happy to see Denise. The pictures placed in this memorial are absolutely beautiful and you can see the true love he shared with Setsuko. The pictures itself tell a wonderful love story. I know Sam will be very missed. He is with you forever because the love for him in your heart never leaves. I also think Sam was blessed to have such a caring family around him. I send you rainbows, smiles and peace. Fondly, Erica Glass