Dr. Ronald A. Castellino

Dr. Ronald A. Castellino, former Professor Emeritus and Chairman of Diagnostic Radiology at Stanford and former Chairman of Radiology at Memorial Sloan Kettering, passed away on April 22, 2026. He made lasting impressions and significant contributions to cancer imaging, oncology, and lymphangiography. But to those closest to him, Ron was far more than his professional legacy.

He was born on February 18, 1938 in Queens, New York, the son of Leonardo and Henrietta Castellino, and the younger brother of Loretta. His name honored his parents, Augustus from a Portuguese colony in Goa, India and Dietrich of Falkenburg, Germany, reflecting a heritage that spanned multiple continents and helped define his global perspective. In 1947, Ron moved to São Paulo, Brazil, where he attended the São Paulo Graded School and became fluent in Portuguese. He later returned to the United States to attend Creighton University, where he earned both his undergraduate and medical degrees in 1963. He then returned to Brazil for two years with his new wife, Joyce, serving in the Peace Corps as the American physician for the volunteers. He received 2 Guggenheim fellowships, in 1974, and 1985.

Ron lived a full and vibrant life. His friends will remember his lively conversations and his love of a spirited debate. He was an avid tennis player, a steady golfing partner on the fairways at Menlo Country Club, and a bridge player. To his grandchildren, he was "Opa." Their favorite tradition was gathering around as he read "Twas the Night Before Christmas" to them each Christmas Eve. The smile on Ron's face whenever the grandchildren walked through the door showed how deeply he loved them.

To his sons, he was Dad - the one who sat at the head of the table, hosted Sunday barbecues, and was a steady presence when times got tough. He watched over their well-being, guided them through life, and helped raise Jeff, Rob, and Anthony into the men they are today. Most of all, he was a devoted husband of 63 years to his wife, Joyce. They were a perfect match - he intensely focused on his career, while she was the heart of their home, creating the warmth, friendship, and loving environment that made their house a home for their three sons and five grandchildren.

He was also a talented and enthusiastic piano player who brought music and laughter to those around him. Above all, he was devoted to his family.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce, with whom he shared 63 wonderful years; his three sons, Jeff, Rob, and Anthony, and their spouses, Maggie, Krista, and Angela; and five cherished grandchildren, Alexis, Ashley, Christian, Monet, and Gabriella. He will be remembered for his kindness, intellect, and the genuine connections he fostered with everyone he met.