Martin Diestler 1942-2020

Martin Alfred Alexander Diestler of Blandinsville, Illinois, passed away on Monday, May 4th, 2020, in Hinsdale, Illinois, at the age of 78.

He was born on April 28th, 1942 in Preston, Lancashire, England to Alexander Diestler and Evelyn Diestler (née Moore), in the midst of WWII. He studied Chemistry and Zoology at the University of Manchester before emigrating to the United States. He received his undergraduate degree in Modern Languages from California State University, Chico. He later received his juris doctorate degree from Northwestern University, which led to a twenty-five year career of practicing law.

Martin was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, having joined the Church in England. He served a two-year mission for the Church, assigned to serve in his home country, and was known for his diligence and dedication to his faith. He was an avid genealogist, a member of the McDonough County Genealogical Society, and had traced his lineage back multiple centuries through England, Germany, and Poland. He was an enthusiastic historian, reader, and bibliophile, and in his later years, he developed a talent for and love of woodworking.

He is survived by his brother, Piers, and his five children, Christopher, Kathryn, Heidi, Mark, and Alexander, as well as six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Martin will be laid to rest at the Nauvoo City Cemetery in a private family service. A public memorial service will be held at the Macomb Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at a later date.