ESTELLE R. KASTLEMAN

1927-2018

Estelle R. Kastleman, 88, died Monday May 14, 2018 at her home in Houston. Estelle leaves behind her husband of 64 years, Lester Kastleman; sons Bryan and Jimmy Kastleman, and daughter, Dr. Lynn Lunceford; grandchildren, Ben, Olivia and Adam Kastleman; daughter-in-law, Zuzana Kastleman and sonin-law, Terry Lunceford, and many close friends and family.

Born and raised in Houston, the daughter of Joseph and Frieda Ratner, she graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor of Arts degree. During college Estelle met Lester on a blind date. She told her friends she did not think he was the marrying type. Happily she was wrong and they married in 1953. This December would have marked their 65th wedding anniversary.

Estelle had a long career as a social worker at Depelchin Faith Home where she helped countless families achieve their dreams of adopting children. After surviving two rounds of cancer, she became an active volunteer with Reach to Recovery, comforting and guiding women newly diagnosed with breast cancer. Subsequently, she joined M.D. Anderson as an employee and enjoyed a fulfilling career with that team. After retiring from M.D. Anderson, she continued to volunteer at the concierge desk, and found great joy in helping families impacted by cancer in navigating the city when their loved one was there for treatment.

She was an avid bridge player and a voracious reader. Her life changed again with the addition of grandchildren – who became her greatest joy. She loved people and was loved by many. She will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Kastleman Pediatric Fund at MD Anderson, 713.792.3450. Graveside service Wednesday, May 16, 11:00 am at Emanu El Memorial Park, 8341 Bissonnet St, Houston.