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Joel Burstein Obituary
September 10, 1980 - March 5, 2025
The Burstein family announces the sudden passing of Joel Stephen Burstein, CPA, who died in Tucson, Arizona at the age of 44 due to hypertensive disease. Born in Overland Park, Kansas, Joel was the beloved son of Ron and Laura Burstein.
Joel was a proud double Wildcat, graduating magna cum laude from the University of Arizona with a bachelor's degree in finance, where he was named Outstanding Senior in his major in 2003. Joel continued his education at the University of Arizona where he earned a master's degree in accounting and became a Certified Public Accountant. Joel's career included distinguished roles at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, BeachFleischman PC, the University of Arizona BookStores and Student Union, and most recently, with David S. Cutler CPA PC, where he was a valued colleague and friend.
Joel was a charismatic leader who was known for his quick wit and brilliant mind. He had a bright, infectious smile and blue eyes that sparkled. He cherished time with family and friends, took pride in his Jewish heritage, and was an ardent supporter of his Arizona Wildcats.
He is survived by his parents, Ron and Laura Burstein, and his sister, Melissa Burstein, all of Tucson; uncles Michael and Robert Burstein of Leawood, Kansas; and many dear friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Sol and Mindel Burstein, and William and Eileen Quinlan.
In Joel's honor, the Joel Burstein Family Foundation has been established to continue his legacy of thoughtful and generous mentorship. The Foundation will be providing scholarship and mentorship programs to support future generations of accounting and finance students at the University of Arizona. Donations should be sent to the:
Joel Burstein Family Foundation
c/o David Cutler CPA
5995 E Grant Road Ste 200
Tucson AZ 85712
Joel's intelligence, humor, and kindness will be remembered by all who knew and loved him. May his memory be for a blessing!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Brian Seastone
April 29, 2025
Rest in peace, dear friend. We love and miss you. Brian and Kory
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Melissa Burstein
April 26, 2025
Joel at the Eller College awards ceremony, where he was named Departmental Outstanding Senior in Finance.
Ann and Lou Lancero
April 21, 2025
Ann and Lou Lancero and Katya Lancero Norris hope that memories of a life well lived will help in the grief of losing Joel. He is within our hearts and our prayers go out to his family and friends.
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