Otto Albert Karstendiek

Otto Albert “Al” Karstendiek died peacefully on April 16, 2014 at the age of 97. He was born November 22, 1916 in Marfa, Texas, the first son of Albert Henry and Beulah Mae Karstendiek, beginning what would become a memorable life shared with family and friends. Al spent his younger years in Marfa before his family moved to Fabens, Texas. He graduated from Ysleta High School in 1934. On Christmas day 1937, he married the love of his life, Nell Billman and they were married for 65 years. Al and his father formed Karstendiek & Sons Construction in 1947. They worked on both home and commercial construction projects. Al retired in 1995. During his 97 years he experienced many historical events such as The Great Depression, World War II which claimed his brother Terrell, the detonation of the first atomic bomb on July 16, 1945, the first moonwalk on T.V. and learning to use a computer in his mid-eighties. Who said “old dogs cannot learn new tricks”? Above all else Al was an avid outdoorsman. Al loved to hunt and fish. Two of his favorite fishing spots were Elephant Butte Lake and the Sea of Cortez near Cabo San Lucas. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America and a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. Besides his own children, Al was a mentor and father to many. Al’s passion for life is probably best summed up by what he said at his 90th birthday celebration. With a sly smile and a wink he said, “I will see you in ten years” and he damn well almost made it. He will be missed by many. He is survived by his three children, Claude “Pepper” Karstendiek, Terrel “Terry” Karstendiek, Nancy Segall, seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. Pallbearers: Paul Karstendiek, Shane Karstendiek, Steven Karstendiek, Todd Segall, Ryan Karstendiek and Randy Broughton. Graveside services will be held at Restlawn Cemetery, 8700 Dyer, Monday, April 21, 2014 at 12:00 pm. The family would like to express their gratitude and thanks to Jessica and Lourdes of Envision Hospice and especially Trina Karstendiek for the loving and tender care they gave. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Envision Hospice or your favorite charity.