Obituary of James C. Casteris

James “Jim” C. Casteris
Beloved father, grandfather, veteran, and advocate for peace

James “Jim” C. Casteris passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, at Harbor Hill nursing facility in Belfast, Maine. He was 93.

Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Jim spent most of his adult life in Newton and Wellesley, where he shared over 30 loving years with his partner, Marguerite Hasbrouck. In his final years, he relocated to Maine to be closer to his daughters.

Jim began his professional career as a Research Project Technician at MIT Labs, where his curiosity and technical skill contributed to groundbreaking scientific work. Later, he embraced a more hands-on path, becoming a self-employed carpenter and handyman.

He is survived by his children: Tina Casteris and her husband Bradley Arnall of Appleton, Maine; Lynda Casteris-El-Hajj of Winterport, Maine; George Casteris and his wife Sarah Armstrong of Tampa, Florida; and Michael Casteris and his wife Michelle Goodwin of Rochester, New Hampshire. He is also survived by his first wife, Sandra Wray of Winterport, Maine. He was the cherished “Grampa Jim” to seven grandchildren, who fondly remember him always fixing, tinkering, climbing on roofs, and digging in gardens—his love of tools matched only by his love for them.

A Korean-era Army veteran, Jim remained deeply engaged in civic life. He was a passionate critic of U.S. policy in Vietnam and became an early member of what would become “Vets for Peace.” His commitment to humanitarian causes led him to work in solidarity with the Cuban people, helping organize and drive buses filled with medical supplies through Mexico to Cuba.

Jim was also a longtime member of the Community Church of Boston in Copley Square, where he found fellowship and purpose among others committed to justice and compassion.

A graveside service will be held on November 21, 2025 at 1 pm at Mount Hope Cemetery in Boston. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to veteransforpeace.org or www.communitychurchofboston.org

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ripostafh.com