George Kastanos' Obituary
93 years young, George passed away
peacefully after a full life and entered his
heavenly rest on September 13, 2024. An
Oakland native, he attended Fremont High
where he lettered in football and baseball and
graduated in 1949. As an American born son
of immigrant parents; he enlisted in the U.S.
Air Force in March 1949 and served
honorably for four years. He loved Big Band
swing and enjoyed dancing, which is where he
met Toni at a popular Oakland dance hall. He
married Toni O’Banion on June 15, 1957 and
resided in Hayward for over 60 years. George
joined the Oakland Fire Department in April
1957 and served for 25 years and was known
as “The Greek”. After he retired in 1982, he
worked at Golden Gate Fields for 15 years.
George was a lifelong San Francisco 49er fan
and played golf in retirement. His faith was
very important and he attended Mass
regularly.
He was preceded in death by his wife Toni and
daughter, Kathy Kastanos-Birch, his parents,
Gus and Mary Kastanos, his brothers Ernie
and Tom and sister Hilda. He is survived by
his son Bob Kastanos and wife Christine,
daughter Cindy Schultz and husband Dave,
and daughter Kim Fraser and husband Allan.
He had several grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
He was proud of being of Greek and
Portuguese ancestry and loved his dog Marlee.
What’s your fondest memory of George?
What’s a lesson you learned from George?
Share a story where George's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with George you’ll never forget.
How did George make you smile?
