Stephen Kasturiraj

Stephen Kasturiraj, of Burbank, California, passed from his earthly body on January 12th, 2026, at home surrounded by his family. He lived a truly remarkable life, and it is an honor to reflect on it below.

He was born on October 16, 1930, in India to Swaminathan and Kumuthavalli. After graduating from college, he joined the Indian military and served his country for 15 years. After entering civilian life, he became an entrepreneur and started several businesses that provided jobs to other veterans, including a real estate firm and a security and private detective service.

He was extremely disciplined in all things, and this was reflected in all aspects of his life. He valued his family and their well-being above all else. He remained mentally and physically fit until the very end. Neighbors, friends, and family will always remember his daily workouts in the driveway. He spent his days devoted to his community and was a lifelong supporter of fighting for climate change, children’s education, animal welfare, and St Jude’s Hospital.

He is survived by his wife of seventy three years: Subbulakshmi, sister: Teresa Rajam, sons: Sonny (Philomena) Mohan, Ravi (Josephine) Raj, his daughters: Rajini (Ranjan) Christadoss, Ragini (Sushanth) Naroth, eight grandchildren and three great-grand children.

He will be reunited in heaven with his parents, six brothers,three sisters,and his beloved dogs Hercules and Tails.

A celebration of life and funeral service will be held on January 24th at 2:30 pm at St. Robert Bellarmine Church in Burbank, CA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Maitri. https://web.charityengine.net/DonateToMaitri

Maitri is a free, confidential, nonprofit organization based in the San Francisco Bay Area that primarily helps families and individuals from South Asia (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives) facing domestic violence, emotional abuse, cultural alienation, or family conflict.