GLORIA KASTNER

Gloria M. Esquivel-Kastner

April 16, 1972 - June 29, 2023

With heavy hearts and a dash of sorrow, we bid farewell to Gloria Mariana Esquivel-Kastner.
She left this world on June 29, 2023, after a seven-year battle with breast and metastatic
melanoma cancers.

A long-time resident of Lancaster, Gloria was born in Port Hueneme on April 16, 1972, to Gilbert
and Clara (Nana) Esquivel. The youngest of four children, she spent her childhood in the
Oakview and Ventura areas. In 1989 she met her husband, Andrew (Andy) Kastner. They were
married in August of 1993 at the San Buenaventura Mission in Ventura. They had four wonderful
children: Simone, Bryce, AJ and Aiden, who were the joy of her life. She was the Mama Bear
who would do anything for her cubs.

In life, Gloria was a remarkable individual, always ready with a caring word, a bear hug, and a
smile that could brighten the darkest day. Her honesty, generosity, and fierce loyalty were the
secret ingredients to her magical recipe of lifelong friendships and cherished memories. She
touched the lives of many as she selflessly went out of her way to guide, encourage, and lend a
helping hand to others.

Gloria received her education at De Anza Elementary, Ventura High School, Ventura College,
and Antelope Valley College. A true pioneer, she became the first in her family to earn a
Bachelor’s Degree (California State University, Northridge) followed by a Master’s Degree in
Educational Counseling from the University of LaVerne, proving that she was the master of her
own destiny and a lifelong learner who valued education and personal growth.

Gloria’s career was marked by dedication and passion, making significant contributions in the
various educational institutions in which she was employed. She held notable positions such as
secretary in the Transfer Center at Antelope Valley College and Transfer Center Specialist at
California State University, Northridge. Additionally, she served as an Academic Senate
Coordinator and Senior Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of Academic Affairs at
Antelope Valley College where her dedication and expertise were highly regarded.
Her passion for education extended beyond her own achievements as she found joy in
empowering others to pursue their educational dreams. After completing her Master’s degree,
Gloria spread her wisdom and guidance as a counselor to the Westside Unified School District
and Antelope Valley High School District. At Antelope Valley High School, she helped students
to navigate the ups and downs of their educational and personal lives. Her most remarkable
achievement was the establishment of the Esquivel-Kastner Engineering Scholarship Fund,
providing deserving students with the means to pursue higher education and chase their
dreams.

Family and Friends meant everything to Gloria; she was surrounded by their love. She
treasured each moment spent with her family and extended family, faithful and trusted friends,
and supportive, encouraging and beloved colleagues.

Gloria will be deeply missed and cherished by all who knew her. She is survived by her devoted
husband Andy and their children, Simone, Bryce, A.J., and Aiden, who brought her endless joy
and more than a few chaotic adventures. Gloria's mother Lisa (Nana) always held a special
place in her heart, and her siblings, Gilbert, George, Diana, and Eddie, will mourn her loss. Her
extended family, including numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, exchange students, and
close friends, were all touched by her warm caring spirit and will miss her dearly. She was
preceded in death by her grandfather, Efren Esquivel, her father, Gilberto Esquivel, as well as
many aunts and uncles.

Rosary will be at 11:30am followed by a Funeral Mass in Gloria's honor at Sacred Heart Church in Lancaster on August
7th at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of tears or flowers, Gloria would want us to spread joy and make a difference. Donations
to the Esquivel-Kastner Engineering Scholarship Fund will honor her legacy, supporting bright
minds, ensuring that deserving students have access to educational opportunities and can
pursue their dreams with her same passion. Use this link for easy instructions on how to donate:
https://tinyurl.com/AVHS-Scholarship-Donations.

Gloria Mariana Esquivel-Kastner leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness that
will forever echo in the hearts of those she touched. May her soul find eternal peace and may
her beautiful spirit continue to inspire us all.