Dalores Casteel was born in Vinton, Iowa on January 21, 1933 to Marvin and Leona Kerkman. As a child after walking some ways on their farm road, she caught the bus to school. While still in high school, she worked as a waitress in a local restaurant. That is where she met Noval Casteel, Sr. whom she married in 1952. They had two children, Noval Jr. and Leona. The small family traveled to or through all 48 continental states before settling in Lompoc in 1959. Dalores was mainly a housewife while the children were young. After raising the children, she worked as an office manager for Lompoc Van and Storage where she retired. While retired, she traveled throughout Europe and the Middle East. She was raised Lutheran, but converted and was confirmed Roman Catholic in the 80's. She volunteered at La Purisima Concepción Catholic Church doing various activities. She also volunteered as a driver for Community Partners in Caring and as a cook for La Purisima Church Community Kitchen. Up until her death, she was an avid swimmer and enjoyed the outdoors.
Dalores died peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 4, 2016. She is survived by her two children, six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 am Monday, July 11, 2016 at La Purisima Catholic Church. Inurnment will follow at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.