Kisters honored as Patriots of the Year

JEFFERSON – Ron and Nancy Kister are not exactly the type of people to seek attention. It seems they’d rather remain in the background.
The spotlight hit the couple, as Ron and Nancy were honored as the Patriots of the Year during the Annual Lincoln Day Dinner hosted by the Ashtabula County Young Republicans on Saturday, April 18, at the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds.
“It is an honor to stand before you tonight as we recognize two outstanding people, Ron and Nancy Kister, as recipients of the Ashtabula County GOP Patriot of the Year Award,” Ashtabula County Commissioner Casey Kozlowski said. “This is a well-deserved honor for two individuals who have given so much to our party, our community, and Ashtabula County over many years.”
The Kisters were honored to accept the award.
“It’s an incredible honor,” Nancy said. “I said it certainly wasn’t necessary. We’re still willing participants, and really want to support the party. We want to support Ashtabula.”
Ron and Nancy were recognized for their dedication to the Republican party.
“When you talk about dedication and loyalty, Ron and Nancy immediately come to mind,” Kozlowski said. “They have long been supporters of Republican candidates and conservative values here in our county. They have never asked for recognition, but they have always been willing to help wherever needed.”
The couple simply believes in the party and its mission.
“Why do we do anything?” Nancy said. “We believe in it. We believe in the party. We believe in conservative values.”
The Kisters have made a point of attending party events with support.
“They have also been a familiar and welcoming presence at fundraisers, candidate events, dinners and community gatherings,” Kozlowski said. “You can always count on Ron and Nancy showing up, supporting others, and helping create the strong sense of teamwork that keeps our local party moving forward.”
Nancy Kister has long been involved in guiding the party.
“Nancy has also served for many years on the executive committee, providing leadership, steady guidance and valuable experience,” Kozlowski said. “Success in any organization depends on people willing to work behind the scenes, and Nancy has certainly done that.”
While providing that support, the Kisters have offered a place for the party to call home.
“For over 17 years, they generously donated space at multiple locations to serve as headquarters for our local party efforts,” Kozlowski said. “That support has played an important role in helping campaigns organize, volunteers connect, and candidates reach voters. Their willingness to step up has made a real difference.”
Donating the space was just something the Kisters felt was right.
“We consider ourselves really good Republicans, and I had the space available, and I just donated it to them for their headquarters,” Ron said.
Ron and Nancy Kister carry their kindness and respect beyond the Republican party and share it with their community.
“Beyond politics, Ron and Nancy are longtime business owners who have earned the respect of this community through hard work, integrity and service,” Kozlowski said. “They understand the value of commitment, treating people right and giving back to the county they call home.”
“They have also been trusted friends and advisors to many people in this room,” Kozlowski continued. “Their wisdom, encouragement and common-sense approach have helped more people than they probably realize.”