Kesty F. Filter

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kesty Filter, who departed this life on March 26, 2026, at the age of 74, at his home in the loving embrace of his family, following a brave battle with cancer. Kesty was born on February 21, 1952, in Glendale, West Virginia, to Kesty J. Filter.

Kesty’s life was a testament to dedication and resilience. He spent his formative years in his hometown, graduating in 1971 from Bishop Donahue High School. His professional journey began at the young age of 18 at Valley Camp Coal in Moundsville, West Virginia, where he earned his West Virginia licensure as a high voltage electrician—a role that filled him with immense pride. His pursuit of knowledge then led him to Columbus State Community College, where he became a licensed 3rd Class Stationary Steam Operating Engineer.

Kesty's career trajectory took him from coal mines to influential roles in Ohio, including significant positions at Jeffery Dressler Mining Machinery, OSU facilities, and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he served as a power plant supervisor and engineer. His commitment to public service shone brightly during his 33-year tenure with the Division of Electricity City of Columbus and the State of Ohio Dept. of Corrections. He retired in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service through the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS).

Beyond his professional achievements, Kesty was a family man whose heart was full of love and devotion. He shared a remarkable 50-year marriage with his beloved wife, Peggy O’Neill Filter, whose partnership was the foundation of his life. Together, they nurtured a loving family, raising two cherished daughters, Carrie Alisse Filter and Heather Anne (Randy) Filter-Vanvorhis. Kesty's pride extended to his role as a grandfather, delighting in the lives of his two grandsons, Blake and Caden Vanvorhis, who brought him endless joy and laughter.

Kesty was close to his special cousins, Lynn and Larry and Tom and Karen, who held a special place in his heart. His friendships with Dave, Walter, Larry Eldridge and Dwayne Manning were also special bonds he revered throughout his life.

A service to honor Kesty’s life will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home, where family and friends will gather to celebrate a life well-lived.

Kesty Filter will be remembered as a man of great integrity, kindness, and perseverance. He loved people everywhere he went. From his doctors and nurses, the people at the YMCA gym, and even the neighbors that would stop by “The Watchmaker’s Desk” in his garage. He loved to chat with them and give their pets a drink of water. His legacy of love and service will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a Christian man who knew and loved Jesus and understood the Bible was Gods word. He’s free of the burdens from this earth and wrapped in Christ’s arms.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 at Newcomer, SW Chapel; 3393 Broadway, Grove City, OH. 

Funeral services will immediately follow at 1:00 PM in the funeral home, with Pastor Christian Root officiating. 

Interment will follow at Grove City Cemetery (New Section), Grove City, OH.