CONFIRMED: Donald T. J. Kestler, Sr., Retired, Veteran, US Marine, Korea/Vietnam (157-25) 2 Sep 25
2217 FM3009
Schertz, TX 78154
USA
US MARINE CORPS. RETIRED VETERAN – KOREA & VIETNAM WAR’S
The family of Mr. Donald T. J. Kestler, Sr., a US Marine Corps. (Ret.) Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Donald T.J Kestler Sr. was born on December 29, 1930, and he passed away on August 16, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas.
Mr. Donald Kestler is a Retired USMC Master Sergeant. Later he retired a 2nd time as a civilian head of logistics at Camp Pendleton.
WEATHER: Hi 87 / Lo 76, 10 % Chance of Rain, 82 % Humidity, Wind: 4 mph ENE
REQUESTOR: Tyler Thompson, Family SPOX
STAGING: 8:00 am, Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Schertz Funeral Home
2217 FM 3009
Schertz, Texas 78154
https://goo.gl/maps/Wk8BmMgM56N2
BRIEFING: 8:15 am
HONOR LINE: 8:50 am
**THIS IS A MOTORCYCLE ESCORT ONLY. NO CAGES PLEASE
KSU: 9:00 am (Semper Gumby)
**THE CAGES WILL MEET AT THE SHELTER IN FORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
INTERMENT: 10:00 am – Shelter #1 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Juan “Mr. T” Tarango
juantarango16@yahoo.com
FC: Rich “Richie Rich” Pachecano
rich@pachecano.net
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
4. Cemeteries are hallowed ground. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Observe the 15 MPH speed limit. Show our respect to ALL who are in attendance.
5. If riding/driving a motorcycle on Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, which is located within a Military Installation, you will need to wear closed toe shoes, long sleeve shirt, gloves, DOT approved helmet, eye protection, long pants, and boots/shoes that cover the ankle.
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers