Ann Elizabeth Kastler, EdD

Dr. Ann E. Kastler born July 8, 1942, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. 

Being the first born of immigrant parents, Ann developed a strong work ethic and a strong passion for life as a learner and educator. After receiving her B.A. from the U of Colorado, she enlisted in the Navy and served during the Vietnam War as LTJG.  Upon being honorably discharged, she began her teaching career as an elementary school teacher in Glen Rock, NJ. It was here she met her husband, Dave, and welcomed into their family a son, Michael.  Shortly thereafter, they moved to Iowa where Ann continued to teach elementary students as well as a Woman's History Course at the then Ankeny Community College.  During this time, she received her Master's Degree in History from Iowa State. Shortly after giving birth to their daughter Michele, the family moved to Burnsville, MN where Ann continued teaching and earned her 2nd Master's Degree in Special Education from St. Thomas. She subsequently taught at Burnsville H.S. and found time to coach synchronized swimming.  While raising a family, teaching, and coaching, she found time to earn her PhD in Educational Administration from the U of M. Shortly thereafter, she became the first female elementary school principal at District 196. She first served at Northview Elementary, then Southview Elementary and, finally, opened Glacier Hills Elementary in Eagan. Her love of teaching carried over into post-retirement when she became an Adjunct Professor at St. Mary's University in Minneapolis, aiding teachers seeking their Master’s Degrees. Over the course of her career, Ann received numerous accolades for her work in education. Although Ann was a dedicated educator and learner, her true love was her family and friends. As a devoted wife, she was married for over 57 years. She enjoyed vacationing and visiting alongside her husband, their children, grandkids and great grandkids. In her free time, she loved shopping, a glass of wine, a good meal, and checking out casinos.

Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Elizabeth Gross and her younger sister, Carol Inness.  She is survived by her husband David, son Michael (Mary) Kastler, her daughter Michele (Brent) Windsor, six grandchildren, Adam, Justin and Olivia Kastler, Joelle Folkers, Samantha Windsor and Alice Windsor, as well as seven great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and sister-in-law. In keeping with her passion for teaching and learning, Ann has bequeathed her body to the Anatomy Bequest Program at the University of MN Medical School. No memorial service is scheduled. In lieu of flowers, family suggest a donation to either the American Stroke Association or the American Cancer Society.