Hal Kostlin

Helmut “Hal” Kostlin, passed away Sept. 20th in his home, surrounded by family. Hal was born Sept 30th, 1935, to Hildegard and Richard Kostlin in Cannstadt, Germany.

In 1956, Hal emigrated from Stuttgart, Germany to Toronto, Canada. Once settled, Hal proposed to the love of his life, Margot, and asked her to join him. In 1961, Hal and Margot moved to southern California, where they started their family. Hal worked in the newspaper industry in California and Nevada. In 1974, he was hired by the Anchorage Times as the Pressroom Foreman and the Kostlin family moved to Alaska, settling in Eagle River. Hal’s work history included Conductor for the Alaska Railroad, North Slope oil exploration, and construction, before starting Halmar Electric, an electrical contracting business. All who knew Hal know that he would still be wiring houses today if not for cancer. In 1993, Hal and Margot designed, built, and moved into their dream home in Palmer.

Hal fought his battle with cancer with the same tenacity that he approached his life: head on. He looked at any challenge and would say, “that ain’t no hill for a climber!” His family will remember his quick wit, humor, love of games, strong German work ethic, and larger-than-life smile. He also had a willingness to lend a hand, and advice, whenever and wherever possible. Hal loved the outdoors; hunting, fishing, and especially, snow machining. Ham Radio, however, was his true passion. Hal communicated with fellow radio amateurs all over the world and has many awards to his credit.

Hal built a cabin near Boulder Creek, which he loved and enjoyed year-round, with his wife Margot, and their dog Chyna. Many wonderful memories were made at the cabin with family and dear friends.

Hal is survived by his wife of 57 years, Margot Kostlin, of Palmer; son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Traci Kostlin, of Chugiak; daughter and son-in-law, Kristine (Tina) and Brian Samms of Gilbert, Arizona; grandchildren: Corey Kostlin of Chugiak; Christopher Kostlin of Anchorage; Lindsey Kostlin of Chugiak; Sean Samms and Quinn Samms of Gilbert, Arizona; and great-grandchildren: Jace Kostlin and Elija Kostlin, of Anchorage.

A celebration of life will be held September 30th at 5pm at the Palmer Community Center (Depot), 231 W. Evergreen Avenue Palmer, AK. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the American Cancer Society.