Lorraine Evelyn Casteel

Lorraine Evelyn Casteel, loving and beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away on December 15, 2013 in Mesa, Arizona at the age of 80. She was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts on November 10, 1933 to Albert & Evelyn (Lefebvre) St. John. In addition to her parents, her loving grandmother Marie Anne "Mémé" (Turgeon) Lefebvre was a very important part of her life and she spoke of her often.

She is survived by her brothers, Ronald St. John (Judy), Arthur Hendricks (Suzanne), her sister, Nancy Siems (Steve) and foster sister, Lillian Machon. Additionally, she is survived by her children and their spouses; Jim Casteel Jr. of Phoenix, AZ, Patrick Casteel (Amy) of Phoenix AZ, Scott Casteel (Theresa) of Fairfax, VA and Suzanne Wilson (Ed) of Houston, TX. She is predeceased by her beloved husband of 48 years, Dr. James S. Casteel, MD and youngest son, Richard (Rick) C. Casteel.

Lorraine grew up in New Bedford, Massachusetts and remained there until meeting her future husband, James S. Casteel, at a dance hall in Lincoln Park in 1953. He was in the Navy and their chance meeting at the end of the evening would change both of their lives. They were married at St. Anthony’s Cathedral Jan. 9, 1954 and moved to California on their honeymoon to start their life out west where James was accepted to medical school. She was a devoted wife and mother and helped James achieve his lifelong dream of becoming an MD while at the same time raising 5 children. Lorraine was an incredible force of nature. She was tireless in her love and commitment to family, friends and those in need. She gave unceasingly to her church, to her community and to every charity or organization that reached out to her for help. She couldn’t say no to anyone in need. She had a special place in her heart for our US Armed Forces and for the Wounded Warrior Projects. During the Vietnam War years she regularly baked at the holidays every year to send care packages of fruit cakes and other needed items to our men in uniform in an effort to bring a little “home” and comfort to them.

Last month we were blessed to have a family gathering for her 80th birthday in Arizona. She looked beautiful and it was a blessing for us all to be able to gather together to share and celebrate 80 years with her. She was one of a kind, a rare and beautiful jewel. She will be fondly remembered for her humor, her strength, her spirit, and her generosity. She was a devout Catholic and loved the Lord. Her friendships were very important to her and she made a point of making sure her cards and letters were sent well in advance of birthdays and important dates. She kept an organizer to ensure none were missed.

She leaves behind countless friends and family who loved her dearly. She was a beautiful gift to the world and to our family.