Alexander (Lee) Castagna Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Alexander Castagna (Lee) May 17, 1928 - May 7, 2015 Died peacefully at home with family at his side and entered eternal life with God, our Lord Jesus Christ. He was the third child born to Angelo and Maria Castagna in New London, CT. His parents immigrated to the United States from Tusa, Sicily, Italy. They instilled a strong faith and work ethic in all of their children. Al worked at the Navel Base in Groton CT., worked with his father as a bridge builder for the New London Railroad, and at Pfizer as a chemical operator. Married in 1952 to Lillian and they had two children. Son, Alex and daughter, Linda. In 1961 they moved to California. After working in construction in San Francisco and at General Motors in Los Angeles the family settled in Goleta. Al worked at Delco Electronics, Division of General Motors until retiring in 1995. He was excited to work on the Lunar Rover Vehicle program and loved working on many automotive engineering projects. After a divorce, he met Mary Johnson, after several years they married. Lee and Mary took many trips throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. He had a special love for animals, giving them all special attention and love. Lee had a passion for automobiles, enjoyed driving and took his family on many road trips. He was talented in many ways and could fix anything. When anyone needed something repaired, there was Al with his tools ready to get the job done. He enjoyed reading automotive magazines and loved to watch Nova or anything related to space travel. Enjoyed many years as a member of the Goleta Elks Lodge 613. Family was his most precious gift, always available to listen and lend a helping hand. He loved to BBQ, especially steak and tri-tip, whether for a special family gathering or just any day. He was patient, kind, quiet, peaceful and a pillar of strength. Lee was preceded in death by siblings, Virginia Plante and Joseph Castagna. He is survived by his son Alexander Castagna of Ojai, and daughter Linda Jordan (Tom) of Santa Barbara. Two granddaughters, Lindsey and Vanessa Castagna of Ojai. His wife, Mary and her children Suzanne, Marilyn, Joel, and Randy, granddaughter Buffy. He also leaves behind loving nephew Anthony, and nieces Rosemary, Carol and Jody. Dad we love you, we miss you, and it gives us strength knowing we will see you again. The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at Sansum Clinic. Rosary on Wednesday, May 20, 4pm at Welch-Ryce-Haider, Goleta. Services on Thursday, May 21, 11amat St. Raphael Church, Goleta.