Bruce Allen Castner

Bruce Allen Castner, 70, of Austin, Texas, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on August 21, 2025. Born in Westwood, New Jersey, on April 27, 1955, Bruce lived a life marked by exceptional kindness, patience, steadfast faith, and unwavering devotion to family.

Bruce earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Fairleigh Dickinson University, later completing a Ph.D. in English from the University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in counseling from Our Lady of the Lake University. His intellectual curiosity and dedication to education were a testament to his belief in lifelong learning.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bruce’s greatest joy was found in family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose quiet strength and gentle presence were the glue that held his loved ones together. He delighted in fishing, family vacations in Colorado, and cheering at every one of his grandchildren’s activities. He and his beloved wife, Joy, shared countless adventures on road trips to South Carolina and Colorado, treasuring every moment spent with children, grandchildren, and the family dogs.

Bruce’s Christian faith was the foundation of his life. He lived with humility and integrity and modeled a servant’s heart to all who knew him. His calm spirit, kind smile, and prayerful guidance bore witness to a life centered on Christ and love for others.

He is survived by his wife, Joy; his children Chris (Rebekah) Castner, Betsy (Ceb) Hudson, Kate (RJ) Gardner, and Henry (Anna-Leigh) Castner; his grandchildren Chloe, Ella-James, Bam, Hayes, and Annabelle (expected March 2026); and his brother, Paul (Barbara) Castner. He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Joanna Castner.

A memorial service will be held in Austin, Texas at St. Luke’s on the Lake Episcopal Church on Saturday, September 13th at 1pm to celebrate Bruce’s life and faith. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization close to his heart.

Bruce will be remembered with deep love and gratitude for his steadfast faith, gentle wisdom, and the legacy of kindness he leaves behind. His memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.