Donald R. Pistner, N3ELI, 86, of East Main Street, Bradford, passed away Thursday, October 5, 2023, at UPMC Hamot Medical Center.

Born May 11, 1937, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Frances L. (Olewinski) and Bernard J. Pistner, Sr. He was a 1956 graduate of Bradford High School. 

He joined the United States Air Force on July 3, 1956, he achieved the rank of Airman Second Class. He was honorably discharged July 2, 1960.

On May 19, 1973, in Salamanca NY, he married Sandra L. (Coffey) Pistner, who survives.

Don worked for RCA Corp., Ventron Electronics. In 1973 he went to work for Dresser-Rand in Olean, NY and retired in 2002. 

Don, N3ELI, was a member of St. Bernard Church, the McKean County Amateur Radio Club where he was the Trustee of the Clubs Call W3VV for over 30 years. He was also a member of the Kane Amateur Radio Operators Club.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Sandra, is one grandson, Shane R. Lewis, of Bradford, one sister, Patricia Tankersly, of Roulette, two brothers, Rupert (Chris) Pistner, of Bradford, and Thomas (Jenny) Pistner Sr., of Rixford, and several nieces and nephews.  
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Molly S. Lewis, who died January 8, 2018, and one brother, Bernard J. Pistner Jr.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2030 at 11:00 am in Willow Dale Cemetery with,Rev. Rob Klouw and Katherine Randall, co-officiating. Followed by Military Honors with the Honor Guard of the Bradford Legion Post 108, at Willow Dale Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com