Stanley Edward Kuenstler

Stanley Edward Kuenstler, a man whose life was defined by service, leadership, and unwavering devotion to his family, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2024, at the age of 100. Born on March 31, 1924, in San Antonio, Texas, to Frank Henry Kuenstler and Eula Annie Kuenstler, Stanley lived a full and remarkable life, deeply connected to the people and places he loved.

Stanley attended Hot Wells Elementary and Middle School before graduating from Harlandale High School in 1940 at the age of 16. He went on to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where he pursued a degree in mechanical engineering. In 1942, he enlisted in the Navy's officer training program while continuing his studies at UT. On June 30, 1944, Stanley received his commission as a First Lieutenant J.G., leaving UT before completing his senior year to answer the call of duty.

Stanley served with honor aboard the USS Murphy, a destroyer escort that saw action in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters during World War II. His service included participating in the historic convoy that transported King Ibn Saud of Saudi Arabia to his secret meeting with President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the Great Bitter Lake. After the atomic bomb was dropped and Japan surrendered, he was one of the first to enter the port of Nagasaki. He concluded his service to the Navy on August 15, 1946, returning to UT to complete his degree.

In 1947, Stanley began his professional career in Peoria, Illinois as a mechanical engineer with the Caterpillar Tractor Company. While there, he met his future bride, Phyllis Iolene Koch, the assistant to the head of the sales training department. On March 19, 1949, he married Phyllis, the love of his life, with whom he shared 64 wonderful years. The newlyweds returned to San Antonio where Stanley joined William K. Holt Machinery Company as an irrigation system salesman. His career flourished, and in 1952, he and Phyllis moved to Austin when he was promoted to heavy equipment salesman for Holt Machinery.

In 1960, Stanley and his family returned to San Antonio where he was named Sales Manager of Holt Machinery. By 1968, he was promoted to General Manager, a role he held until 1972, when he purchased Girard Machinery and Supply Co., which became Kuenstler Machinery Company in 1982. Under his leadership, the company thrived as a respected South Texas distributor of heavy equipment, including John Deere Construction Machinery. Stanley retired in 1997 following the successful sale of the business.

Stanley was a man of many talents and hobbies. He was an active member of Los Jubilados Bicycle Club, where he developed close friendships, and participated in Friday morning group rides through the Texas hill country. On Saturdays, he was often kayaking through the hill country with his paddling group. Stanley also held an instrument-rated private pilot's license, flying often for both business and pleasure. During his years at the University of Texas and in Peoria, he was a talented square dance caller and remained a fan of country music throughout his life.

Stanley was deeply involved in his community, serving as president of the Alamo Kiwanis Club and sitting on the board of Republic Bank. His dedication to service, whether in business or his personal life, was admired by all who knew him.

Stanley is survived by his beloved family: his son, David Robert Kuenstler and partner, Lisa LeGrand; his daughter, Dana Kuenstler Howard, and his son-in-law, Robert Emmett Howard IV. He leaves behind a cherished legacy in his grandchildren: Robert Emmett Howard V and his wife, Molly Hammond Howard, and their daughters, Sloan Morgan Howard and Emmett Rose Howard; and Molly Howard Sublett and her husband, Bradley Hunter Sublett, and their daughters, Avery Elise Sublett and Mackenzie Grace Sublett. Stanley’s special friend and companion, LaRue Terry, was a constant source of joy in his later years.

Stanley's life was a testament to hard work, commitment to family, and the pursuit of his passions. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

GRAVESIDE SERVICEFRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 202411:00 A.M.HOLY CROSS CEMETERY17501 NACOGDOCHES RD

In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation in his honor to The Salvation Army.