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Eric Casteel Obituary
Eric Jackson Jack Casteel, born March 30, 1929, passed peacefully at the home of his son in Bellaire, TX on June 4, 2009. While Jack loved to travel, Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton was home for many years. Jack proudly served his country in the Army for over 26 years, serving in World War II, Korea, and Okinawa. Jack also had a passion for coaching volleyball, mentoring many young men and women. He was particularly proud of coordinating an exhibition game between the USA & Soviet Union Olympic teams in El Paso, TX in 1974 and leading the Lehigh University Womens Volleyball team to unprecedented success from 1992-1996. Jack was preceded by his life changing son, Shannon (1975), his wonderful first wife Peggy (1998), and the love of his life, second wife Priscilla (2002). Survivors: Jack is survived by his children Kevin (wife Lucy), Mitch (wife Beth), and Liz (husband Mike); grandchildren Chris, Leah, Caitlin, Savannah, Sean, and Carter. Services: Jack will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery in VA with a graveside service honoring his service at 9 a.m. on July 6, 2009. You can pay tribute to Jack by sharing his loves (that he frequently shared with us) - traveling to beautiful locations; dining at fabulous restaurants; opening up a great bottle of wine; telling (and retelling) millions of intricate stories; and offering your prayer on the morning of July 6, 2009. He will long be remembered and loved for touching the lives!
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Memories and Condolences
for Eric Casteel
July 17, 2009
We did attend Jack's memorial in Arlington in early July. It was distinguished, honorable and fit for Jack. I was honored to be there and I am sure that all of the folks that were there will feel the same way.
It was wonderful to see the family again. Liz and Mitch, the memorial the night before was a great idea. We all shared our memories of Jack and Pris, had some tears and had some great food and wine. It was also great to see Kevin and Lucy later on. It was a great honor to be there at Arlington to see Jack inturned. He deserved nothing less.
I was having a glass of wine today on my porch overlooking the house that Jack and Pris had built and were so proud of. My heart still aches but there are also so many happy memories there....they will never be forgotten as long as I am here to remind our neighbors about them...although they need no introduction.
My daughter asked me today about Pop Pop Jack..I don't know how she remembers him as she was so young but she does. He had that impact on everyone.
Again, we were honored to be there at Jack's service. We will miss both of them forever.
Best,
The Kochan Family
Keith, Kathleen and Katherine
Tammy Bell
July 12, 2009
I am saddened about Jack's passing. I will never forget him, and I am proud to say he was a great friend. Jack always encouraged me that I can do anything that I set my mind to do. I think he was the most intellignt man that I knew. Anything that I would enquire about, it seemed that he would have some expertise advice. In Janaury 09 I started Walterstate college for a R N degree ,and jack would call to see how I was doing. Sometimes I would complane of being overwhelmed , and he would encourage me not to give up.I will miss his encouragement when I return to school in August for my second semeister. I loved to hear Jack's stories; about his life's journey his wife Pricilla his children , Liz, Mike, Mitch, Beth, Kevin, Lucy , and all of his beautiful grandchildren. I know that he was so proud you, and that he loved you deeply. Through Jack's life, and his death I have found great friends that I will never forget.
Love, Tammy
Laurie Woodman
July 2, 2009
Dear Liz and Family,
Your Dad was a wonderful man and was also a man who never met a stranger!! I wish we could have been around him more, however we will cherish the times we did see him. He was a wonderful story teller!!Thanks Liz for sending this site to us!
You are so Blessed to have had a Dad and Grandpa like Jack!!! You will all be in our Prayers and Thoughts not only on July 6th but always.
Love, Laurie, Martin and June.
Kathleen Kochan
July 2, 2009
Jack was a next door neighbor of mine for several years. When I first met Jack, he was getting his mail and we introduced ourselves to each other. Jack asked me if we had any children and at that time, we did not. He told me that until I did, I would not know true love. He was right. Several years later after the birth of our daughter, Jack and Priscilla were one of the first friends to hold our little girl. Our daughter still remembers him as Pop Pop Jack. That was the first of many wonderful memories that we have of Jack and Pris. We were with Priscilla at the end and are honored to be attending Jack's service in Arlington.
We shared many moments with Jack and Priscilla - happy and sad. My young daughter and I spent 9/11 at their house until my husband got home from work. It was always a comfort being in their home.
We used to get together for barbeques, wine tasting or impromptu visits. Jack had a great love for his home and the beautiful view from his dining room window. It looked out over the mountains and the sunrises were always spectacular.
Jack was the most honorable man I think I will ever know. You always knew where you stood with him but it you where lucky enough to know him, that was one of his best qualities. He was a kind man, smart and articulate. We loved him and I am sorry that my daughter did not have this man to grow up next to.
I remember when Jack moved. We still have the picture against that favorite window of my husband, daughter and myself with Jack. He got in his car, pulled out of the drive and stopped halfway down the road to take one look back at the house. I understood why he had to leave but knew that I would miss him terribly.
There is not enough space here to write everything I would like to about Jack. He was just a wonderful man - the kind that you rarely get to meet in life.
Jack, wherever you and Pris are, open up a good bottle of wine (or whine as it used to come out with your accent) and rest in peace. The neighborhood will never be the same without the two of you.
By the way, Pris's tree still blooms those pretty pink petals every year.
Our best to his family.
Ande and Joe Gromosky
July 2, 2009
Big Jack
Trying to think of the words to express my feelings for Jack seems to be like trying to explain how the air smells after a needed rain to someone at the Arctic Circle. You can feel the air, you can smell the air and even taste it at times, but the description is elusive.
I guess the best way is to tell what I have experienced in the years that I have known him.
Every time I saw him I wondered what his topic of debate would be. I tried to be mentally ready for anything. I never knew the answers (or the other side most of the time), I just liked to hear him debate.
He loved his family, sometimes to the point of hurt pride or feelings. I wish we all had someone in our lives who told us things that were hard to hear, made us really think about the tough choices in life and yet loved us no matter our final choice. I hope to follow his example for the people I love.
He enjoyed giving people things he thought would make them happy. I know I cherish the things he gave me, the time he wanted to spend with me and my family and our special conversations that will stay in my heart.
He has a great family. I feel honored to be apart of their lives. We have celebrated much, laughed loudly and shared tenderness and tears. I had already met Mitch and Kevin (and respective kids and wives?) through Liz before I had met Jack. I already knew I would adore him as well…and I do.
There are the other things: “queso” dip, fudge, movies, food, books, travel, wine and church that I enjoyed about him, but his big heart is what I will remember most.
May God bless you all and may He give you the courage to move forward, the wisdom to incorporate what Jack has taught each and everyone of you, and the peace each of us seek.
Ande, Joe, Ben and Jack Gromosky (Liz and Mike’s Indy friends)
Roxann and John Simmons
July 1, 2009
Liz and Family:
John, Diana, Bryan, Cory and I always enjoyed the time we shared with Jack! He was filled with enthusiasm and love whenever he spoke of you and each one of his endeared family. How we will miss his charm at gatherings. He never failed to test our thinking as I'm sure he was always looking to broaden his own.
Thank you for bringing him into our lives and hearts... we will forever be improved!!
Pam Ortega
July 1, 2009
Liz And Family,
I was very sad to hear about the passing of your Dad. I know that with everyones's thoughts and prayers and your fond memories that in time everything will be ok.
Mindy Higgins
June 30, 2009
Liz and Family -
Your dad always had such wonderful stories to tell. I'm sure his story will live on in your hearts and in the hearts of all of us who knew and loved him.
Karen Simmons
June 28, 2009
Dear Liz, Mitch, and Kevin,
I'm certain the memories of your Dad and of the special times you shared together will be a comfort to you now and in the days ahead. I am extending my deepest sympathy to each of you and your families.
Megan (McCulty) Kershner
June 23, 2009
Although I never played for Jack, his dedication and discipline for volleyball was well known (and feared!) He knew the game of volleyball and knew how to coach it well. He was a wonderful person and I am very sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Ruth Silveira
June 23, 2009
It is with great sadness that I learned of Jack's passing.
He was my daughter's coach at Lehigh. He was not only a wonderful coach, but an exceptional human being.
I want to send his family my deepest condolences.
He'll be in our hearts for ever.
Ruth Silveira (Ana- Lucia Silveira's mother)
Art Jr & Stella Moreno
June 23, 2009
Dear Kevin and family, our we are so very sorry for your loss. We love and appreciate you.
Alberta Politi
June 22, 2009
Dear Mitch and Family,
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. He was a wonderful person and coach.
Alberta and Nick Politi
Jose Silveira
June 22, 2009
Jack coached our daughter Ana-Lucia at Lehigh University from 1993 to 1997. He was a great coach but most of all, he was a great human being whose patience, dedication and advise touched every girl on the team.
Our sincere condolences to Jack's family from the Silveira family in New York.
Tricia (Heffelfinger) Anderson
June 22, 2009
Jack was one of the best coaches I had. As tough as he was, I will never forget the lessons I learned through him. Thank you for everything and my sympathy to family and friends.
Allison (Gregorek) Hamilton
June 22, 2009
I am saddened to hear about the death of Jack Casteel. Jack was my volleyball coach at Bethlehem Catholic HS from 1989-1993. He was an amazing coach and mentor. In addition, he did so much for the volleyball community in the Lehigh Valley. It was an honor to have played for him...he is a man I will never forget! My condolences to his family!!
Danna (Gombocz) Williams
June 22, 2009
Jack Casteel was my Volleyball Coach from 1989-1993 at Bethlehem Catholic and from 1993 to 1995 at Lehigh University. He touched my life. I hope he rests in peace and is re-united with his lived ones. My sympathy to his family and friends!
Mike Casey
June 21, 2009
Mr. Casteel,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your years of dedicated service and sacrifice for our Country when you served in the U.S. Army. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
Emily Episcopio-Hansen
June 21, 2009
I played volleyball for Jack at Bethlehem Catholic High School from 1990-1994. Jack was a wonderful coach and mentor. He had such compassion for his players and expected their very best. I have taken what Jack taught me on the volleyball court and applied it to the person I am today of never giving up.
I also remember when Jack brought the U.S. Men's National Volleyball team to Bethlehem. I still have my autographed trapper keeper of when they came filled with pictures! To me Jack’s dedication and honesty is what made him such an outstanding coach! I am truly grateful I had the opportunity to be coached by Jack.
May peace replace your sorrow and loving memories bring you comfort.
Chester & Ginger
June 21, 2009
We did not know Mr. Casteel but as veterans ourselves, we wanted to share these poems to help ease your grief.
"Final Roll Call
Did you hear the sad news today?
A brave American Soldier, Eric Jackson Casteel has passed away.
Called by the Supreme Commander over all.
Today he has made his final roll call.
Come Brothers-In-Arms; let us reverently bow and pray
For our valiant comrade, who has fallen this day.
We’ll drape his casket with a banner of beautiful hues,
Those glorious American colors: red, white and blue.
That star spangled banner he gallantly fought to defend,
Unyielding and undaunted, he fought to win.
He fought bravely and he fought his very best.
Now the Supreme Commander grants him, “eternal rest”.
With dignity and honor, we’ll commit his body to the ground,
The bugler will sound “Taps” and we’ll fire the volley rounds.
The final military honors we’ll render somberly and ever so sadly;
“Old Glory” we’ll solemnly precisely fold and reverently give to his family.
Each Memorial Day we will recall Eric’s name,
And attest that his supreme sacrifice was not in vain;
For this lasting legacy he gave to all generations;
“It’s honorable to respect our flag and to defend our great nation.”
So close ranks fellow warriors, for our ranks are thinning.
We must keep on fighting and keep on winning.
With pride and honor we’ll march and stand tall,
And we’ll proudly - proudly - salute “Old Glory”
‘til we join Eric at our final roll call.
Farewell Eric Jackson Casteel- Be At Ease; Rest In Peace
"The Other Side
I’m over on the other side
Where life and death softly divide…
Left my skin and bones behind
Now I’m over on the other side.
Can you feel me there with you?
My breath is gone but I’m not through.
loved you then and I still do
from over on the other side.
I can fly. Really fly.
Below the earth…all through the sky…
Tell them all I did not die.
I’m just over on the other side.
It’s good here on the other side.
The sweetest songs...the bluest skies….
Thank you for the tears you cried
But it's good here on the other side.
I can fly. Really fly.
Below the earth...all through the sky.
Tell them all I did not die.
I’m just over on the other side
The world is smaller than a needle's eye.
Where life and death softly divide…
When you leave your skin and bones behind
I’ll be waiting on the other side.
I can fly. Really fly.
Below the earth ... all through the sky.
Go tell them all I did not die.
I’m just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
Nicole Politi
June 21, 2009
Jack coached me over multiple USVBA seasons and summer camps in the Lehigh Valley. He taught me everything there was to know about about volleyball. His knowledge of the game and ability to motivate was outstanding. I have carried many of the principles he taught me as a youngster into every other area of my life. And he led by example, dedicating himself to the game and his players. He will be missed greatly, but remembered by me forever.
My condolences to his family and all those who knew him, because you could not know Jack and not be affected by him. He was a great person and the best coach I've ever had.
Kate Markovich-Weeks
June 21, 2009
I played volleyball for Liberty High School from 1988-1991. Jack coached Bethlehem Catholic's team during that time, and we were rivals. He also helped to start some of the first club teams in our area, which i was part of. I remember Jack as someone who had a passion for the sport of volleyball and someone who gave me opportunities through volleyball that i may not otherwise have had.
As a coach, Jack traveled with us to a national tournament in New Mexico and brought us to a restaurant in Santa Fe, one of his favorite areas. We could tell how much he loved the south west and telling stories about his travels there.
I remember when Jack brought the U.S. Men's National Volleyball team to Bethlehem. It was amazing to be able to watch and meet the best volleyball players in the world.
Jack could be a little rough around the edges :)...but he was always good to me and my family...and i will forever remember and appreciate him for that.
My deepest sympathy goes out to Jack's loved ones, especially Priscilla, who i remember as being incredibly kind and generous.
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