Ruth Noelle Castellano

Ruth Noelle Castellano, 53 years of age, died peacefully in her Chesterfield home on June 5, 2012, following a courageous battle with primary amyloidosis. A West Virginia native, Ruth was born October 6, 1958, the fourth and youngest child of Genelle Frey Weston and Richard Weston. Her caring nature and high energy led her to nursing, and she held an Associate's then a BS in Nursing, followed by a Master's in Public Health. Ruth was hired at Christian Hospital as a Staff Nurse in 1982, following her relocation to the St. Louis area; within two years, her focus moved to the fledgling home health program and never again wavered. She was instrumental in the BJC agency consolidation, then led the organization from 1996 as Director of Operations, then Vice President, to stage BJC Home Care Services as the largest, most comprehensive provider in the region. Ruth's professional accomplishments included serving on the Missouri Department of Home Health Advisory Council, the National Association for Home Care & Hospice Nominating Committee, and the Joint Commission Home Health Advisory Board. She was a recognized authority in the health care community, and a speaker at national conferences who was published in trade journals. Ruth served the community at large as a member of the Humanitri Advisory Board, the St. Jane/Fr. Tolton Community Services, Ameren UE Operation Weather Survival, and the Latvian-US Partnership in hospice program development. Recognitions of her substantial contributions include the YWCA Women's Leadership Award (1986), Christian Health System Leader of the Year (1993), Missouri Alliance for Home Care Leadership Award (2007), induction into the NAHC Hall of Fame (2012), and the establishment of the Ruth Castellano Nursing Scholarship (2012). Ruth's greatest source of pride, however, was the love and support of her incredible family. Ruth is survived by her devoted husband, John P. Castellano; her beloved daughters, Courtney Sedano and Taylor Sedano; her bonus children Michael (Christa) Castellano and Nicole Castellano; her bonus grandchildren Vincent and Marissa; her mother, Genelle Weston; her loving brothers Rick (Lynne) Weston and Randy (Susan) Weston; and her nephews and great niece. Ruth was predeceased by her father, Richard and her sister, Rhonda. Ruth is, additionally, survived by her huge work family and countless friends who were blessed to know her. She will be remembered by all for her cheerful determination, positive attitude, illuminating smile and warm spirit.