Stefanie Derewecka Castelino, of Montreal, passed away peacefully at the age of 81 at the Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence in Pointe-Claire on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. A woman known for her strength of character, sharp wit, intellect and courage, Stefanie was a trailblazer in her career, but her life’s passion was unquestionably her love and devotion to her family.

Born in Dresden, Germany on March 2, 1944, Stefanie came to Canada at the age of 7. Her family settled in Montreal and quickly became immersed in the culture and fabric of the city she loved so much. Stefanie became a teacher and was one of the first women to graduate from Loyola College in 1966. She pursued and obtained a Master’s Degree from the State University of New York, Plattsburgh, which she fondly recounted as one of her proudest accomplishments. She worked as a Physics, Chemistry and Biology high school teacher for 35 years at John F. Kennedy High School and St. Pius X Comprehensive High School. She excelled at her calling in life and shaped many young lives and careers. She cared deeply for her students and was friends with many of them until the day she passed. Stefanie enjoyed painting, which she took up after she retired and her home was adorned with many of her art pieces. Stefanie also enjoyed photography and many of her friends will remember her taking pictures at retired teacher lunches and other activities. Stefanie’s biggest source of pride was her family, particularly her cherished grandchildren, on whom she doted tirelessly.

Stefanie is survived by her devoted husband, Mike Castelino; sister Mary Sheffield; daughter Tanya (Jean-François); stepson Stephen (Gina); stepdaughter Courtney (Andy); and her beloved grandchildren Anna Benjamin and Anthony.

A viewing will be held at the Urgel Bourgie Funeral Home at 3955 chemin De La Côte-de-Liesse, Saint-Laurent, QC, H4N 2K7 on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish, 1020 Laird Blvd, TMR, Quebec at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 24, 2026, followed by a reception at a location to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Stefanie’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence in Pointe-Claire, Quebec, or a charity of your choice.