KIERSTEAD, LESLIE T. - The death of Mr. Leslie Thomas Kierstead, loving husband of Janet (McDiarmid) Kierstead of 48 years, occurred on January 2, 2010 at the Saint John Regional Hospital after a short and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Saint John, he was the son of the late Elijah and Elizabeth (Jonah) Kierstead. Les had a great interest in yachting, being a member of the Martinon Yacht Club since 1977, and enjoying sailing on the St. John River on board his yacht the "Jan-Les" with his wife Janet. Being very active, he obtained his pilot's licence at the age of 16, was a scuba diver, and enjoyed traveling with his wife for many years. He retired from Irving Paper in 1998. His grandchildren were very precious to him. He had a great love for family and friends and was always there for them to lend a hand. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons; Mark (Cindy) Kierstead of Saint john, and Stephen (Trudy) Kierstead of NL, four sisters; Hazel Knowlton of Saint John, Mildred Kierstead of Sussex, Ruth (George) Beshera, Patricia (Ronald) Beshera, all of Quispamsis, also survived a special sister-in-law Carmen Webb, three grandchildren; Sharidan Kierstead and Jamus Kierstead of Saint John, and Thomas Kierstead of NL., and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by brothers Elmer and Richard Kierstead, and sisters Lillian Brown and Norma Greer. Resting at Castle "Fallsview" Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Ave. Saint John West (634-1701) with visiting on Monday from 7 to 9 pm and Tuesday 2 to 4, 7 to 9 pm. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday at 11 am from Fallsview Chapel. Interment in Ocean View Memorial Gardens. Following the interment a time of fellowship will take place at Fallsview Family Reception Centre. Donations in memory of Leslie may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of the donor's choice would be appreciated by his family. Online condolences may be placed at www.castlefh.com