David Crile Kisling Sr.

David Crile Kisling, Sr., 89, of Billings, Montana, died in the early  hours of Oct. 16, 2022, with family gathered at his side.

Dave was born on Nov. 20, 1932, in Tyler, Texas, the youngest of James and Ruth Kisling’s four sons. He grew up in Texas and Oklahoma, graduating from Tulsa Central High School. He enlisted in the Navy ROTC in 1952, continuing his education at the University of Oklahoma and earning a Bachelor of Science degree in geology in 1956. While at the university, Dave was a member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity. He met Sarah “Sally” Cockrell, his future wife, on a blind date at the Texas-Oklahoma football game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas.

From 1955 to 1957, Dave served as Lieutenant JG in the U.S. Navy, and as Port Control Officer in Okinawa, Japan. After his return from service overseas, Dave and Sally were married on Dec. 27, 1957, in Dallas, Texas. They would have two sons, David and Jim.

In 1962, Dave earned a Master of Science degree in geology from the University of Wyoming, and was made an honorary member of the Society of Sigma Xi, for the promotion of Research in Science. He subsequently followed his father’s career path as a petroleum geologist. His work in the oil industry took him and his family across the country and around the world, to homes in North Dakota, the Netherlands, Libya, Texas, and ultimately settling in Billings from 1976 until his death. In Billings, he was also engaged in the development of family businesses KGC and KW Signature Homes.

He was an active member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists, and the Montana Geological Society. Dave’s strong work ethic led him to quip that he would “never retire.” He was professionally active as a practicing geologist until the age of 85.

Dave was also enthusiastic about a wide variety of hobbies. He was a skilled woodworker, a keen gardener, and an avid collector of vintage cars and tractors. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, often gathering with his brothers at the family cabin on the Boulder River for many happy days of hiking, fishing, hunting, good food, and the occasional fine Scotch. He was the affectionate companion of many dogs, most of them Labrador Retrievers. Training and caring for his dogs was a lifelong passion.

Dave leaves a big gap in the lives of those who knew and loved him. He highly valued supporting his family in their personal and professional pursuits. Friends and family knew Dave for his sharp wit and colorful storytelling. He was by nature curious, friendly and interested in engaging new friends and acquaintances. At Morningstar, during his last year, he was rarely found in his room, instead constantly engaging with other residents and staff. The family is especially grateful for the staff of Morningstar Reflections Memory Care who cared for him in his last year.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, James Kisling and Ruth (Dunnam) Kisling; and by his three brothers, Jim, Dick and Pete. He is survived by his wife, Sally; sons David and Jim; grandson Cody; great-grandson Heston; many nieces and nephews; and a large and loving extended family.

A memorial service is planned for June 2023, with further details pending. The family invites memorial donations to Lab Rescue LRCP (lab-rescue.org), in honor of Dave’s love for his many canine companions.