Jacob I. ‘Kit’ Carstensen, 92, Vero Beach
Jacob I. “Kit” Carstensen, 92, was blessed to finish his earthly race at home, attended by family, on Dec. 10, 2018.
Kit was born in Keystone Heights, Fla., in June of 1926 and enlisted in the Navy in 1943.
Only 17, he was excited to learn he’d ship out to a Naval Air Station in Vero Beach, because he thought Vero Beach must be an exotic overseas location. To his surprise, however, he arrived at his base after only a three-hour train ride south.
That assignment resulted in him meeting and marrying his wife of 74 years, Vero Beach native Doris Cato Carstensen.
After the war Kit merged his ardent love of the water with his masterful grasp of all things mechanical in a small business called Kit’s Marine Service.
He also captained many private vessels, making dear and life-long friends in the process.
Kit was happiest when he stayed busy in service to others. He was quick to offer his amazing DIY expertise to his own family and friends, and to their family and friends as well; no one was too remote for him to help.
And every problem was tackled with energy, enthusiasm, and humor.
Kit is survived by his wife Doris Carstensen; son, Jack Carstensen (Patty); and daughters, Sherry Rothe and Sue Dempsey; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also surviving him are Michael Stutzke and other “adopted sons and daughters” for whom he and Doris served as loving “universal parents.”
His arms and his home were always opened wide.
A memorial service celebrating his life will begin at 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019, at Christ The King Presbyterian Church in Vero Beach.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of love and admiration for this remarkable man may be made as donations to his beloved Church, Christ The King Presbyterian Church, 4050 77th St., Vero Beach.
Paul Juttner, 86, Vero Beach
Paul Juttner, 86, of Vero Beach, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 13, 2018.
Visiting hours are from 2-4 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 17, at Strunk Funeral Home, 916 17th St., Vero Beach.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, 10 a.m. at the Holy Cross Catholic Church, 500 Iris Lane.
Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Fort Pierce.
