Renee A. Zastrow

Called Home to the Lord

Renee A. Zastrow, a devoted woman of faith, cherished mother, and adoring grandmother was called home to be with her Savior on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on March 27, 1950, in Rochester, New York, Renee lived a life marked by generosity, hospitality, and a deep trust in God’s unfailing goodness.

Renee demonstrated an unwavering faith in her Savior Jesus Christ. She rested securely in the knowledge of His plan, often citing her guiding Scripture, Jeremiah 29:11—"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Her daily mantra was the quiet strength of Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God."

A true prayer warrior, Renee’s faith was the center of her life expressed through her steadfast devotion to church and ministry. She joyfully shared her love for Jesus by teaching the Word of God and serving as a welcoming greeter at her church. She extended her warmth and hospitality by leading three Bible studies in her home at College Greene where she served the community with a generous heart. When her children were young, Renee dedicated her time as both a Girl Scout and Boy Scout leader.

Renee has been welcomed into her eternal home. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 42 years, Gary Zastrow (Da Hon), and her parents, Nelson and Josephine LaBarr.

Professionally, Renee served as a meticulous medical transcriptionist for both Lakeside Hospital and Borg Imaging. However, her enduring legacy lives on through the family she adored. Her greatest love was for her ten grandchildren and she dedicated herself to making every birthday and holiday memorable. She cherished playing games with them, enjoying Target outings and getting her nails done with her granddaughters.

In her leisure time, Renee found simple pleasures in life: reading Amish books, sharing coffee and lunch with friends and enjoying creative crafts often alongside her two loving sisters.

Renee is survived by her devoted children, their spouses and children who will carry on her legacy of faith:

Son, David (Kathleen) and grandson, Anthony

Son, Joel (Christine) and granddaughters, Julia, Maggie, and Leah

Daughter, Erika Payne (Jonathan) and grandchildren, Silas, Mercy, and Eden

Daughter, Shelly Rosario (Johnathan) and grandchildren, Reese, Isaac, and Lyra

She is also survived by her loving siblings: Michael LaBarr, Gary LaBarr, Roseann Trotto (Lou), Lisa Mastrosimone (Steve Beachner); along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

We celebrate that Renee fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7). She has received the crown of righteousness prepared for her by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.