Carlton Wesley "Dutch" Wiest, Jr passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 4 at the Veteran's Administration hospital in Lebanon, PA. He was 89 years old. He struggled with cancer for several years, and was cared for in his last months by the phenomenal hospice staff at the VA. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, sister, nephews, and 5 children who passed in the earliest moments of their lives. He is survived by his wife, Antoinette (nee, Zanis), his daughter, Dawn, his daughter-in-law, Dana, nephews and nieces, cousins, his beloved dogs Henry, Curly, and Ginger, and his grand-dogs, Ellie and Gabe.

Carl served in the US Army for twenty-two years and retired with the rank of Sergeant First Class. He served one tour of duty in Vietnam, where an eye injury sent him home. Exposure to Agent Orange while he served in Vietnam caused significant health challenges in his later years. During his time in the Army, he was stationed in multiple places throughout the US and Asia, with his favorites being Japan and Colorado.  Carl earned an associate degree from Pennsylvania State University, Schuylkill Haven campus, majoring in letters, arts, and sciences.

Carl had many hobbies and interests throughout his life. He loved fishing on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Poconos when he was young; collecting coins, stamps, guns, and lanterns; wood carving; pistol shooting; model railroading; raising fish in his outdoor ponds in Seltzer, PA; watching the Philadelphia Eagles win; and caring for the many dogs and cats he and Antoinette rescued over their years together. He was a voracious reader and a jazz lover, with a special passion for the music of Dave Brubeck. Carl passed his love of literature, music, and football on to his daughter, Dawn. He was known for his unique, creative mind and his storytelling. You never knew if his stories were true! He entertained many friends and family members over the years with his dry sense of humor and his talent for conversation. Carl's proudest accomplishments included 63 years of marriage to Antoinette, 50 years of sobriety, and supporting his daughter, Dawn, unconditionally.

Carl's last civilian job was at Gould's pump in Ashland, PA. He was a highly skilled machinist. He spent the last few years of his life in Lebanon, PA, where he enjoyed many new friends and living closer to his daughter. He was delighted with his new home, where it took him less than 30 steps to get to the bathroom from the sofa!

A visitation will be held from 10:30-11:00 AM, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 11, 2023 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 2596 Cornwall Rd, Cornwall, PA 17016. Interment with full military honors will be held at 1:00 PM at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please consider making a donation in Carl's name to the Hillside SPCA ( https://www.hillsidespca.com /), to the VA Lebanon Healthcare System (https:// www.va.gov/lebanon-health-care/work-with-us/volunteer-or-donate /), or to your local library. Thompson Funeral Home, Inc. is entrusted with the arrangements.  Please share your memories with the family at our online guest book at thompsonfuneralhomelebanon.com