Robert E. Kastelic
Robert E. Kastelic of Beaumont, Calif., passed away Jan. 2, 2012.
He was born Aug. 22, 1929, to Frank and Anna Kastelic in Claytonia.
He was a member of the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church of Lake Arrowhead, Calif.
As a young boy, Bob worked on a farm and delivered newspapers. In 1948, at the age of 18, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps, 1st Marine Division, 5th Marines. He served in Guam and then Korea from June 1951 to August 1951, where he was one of the “Chosin Few” at the Chosin Reservoir. He finished his tour of duty at the headquarters of the Marine Corps in Washington, D.C., and was discharged as a staff sergeant. He was always a Marine and was proud to have served our country.
In June 1952, he met Patricia Ellenberger, daughter of Paul and Peggy Ellenberger of Butler. They were married July 16, 1953. During their 58 years together they were blessed with four children, daughters, Vicki (Peter), Cathi (David), and Pattie Sue and son, Richard (Linda); seven grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. They were his pride and joy and he loved them dearly. These family members and his brothers, Don and Jack of Butler, are his survivors.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Edward of Montclair, Calif., and his brother-in-law, Richard Ellenberger.Bob retired from Simpson Paper Mill in Pomona, Calif., in 1997. He lived in Ontario, Calif., for 37 years and then moved to Running Springs, Calif. In 2010, he moved to Beaumont, Calif. He enjoyed reading and being with family and friends.Bob was always willing to help others. He followed the Marine Corps motto, “Semper Fi,” or always faithful. He exhibited faithfulness to his country, family and God. As a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he displayed endless acts of service. He leaves behind a legacy that will shine through each and every person he touched. He will continue as a hero and strength. Even though he will be missed terribly, he will remain in the hearts of his family.
<B>KASTELIC</B> — A celebration of the life of Robert E. Kastelic, who died Jan. 2, 2012, took place in California.
