Joel Edward Steirman, 80, of Orange, Texas, passed away on March 30, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont.
Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Hebrew Rest Cemetery in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Officiating will be Rabbi Barry Weinstein.
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Newark, New Jersey, on November 19, 1943, he was the son of Ken Lewitter and Ruth Lewitter. After graduating from Hillside High School in Newark, New Jersey, Joel pursued his education at Monmouth University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in History and Political Science. His thirst for knowledge and commitment to excellence paved the way for a successful career in the field of accounting. Joel established his own CPA business in Texas and Louisiana in 1985.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Joel was deeply involved in various community organizations that allowed him to give back and make a difference. He was a lifelong ambassador of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. Joel's leadership qualities shone through as he served as the president of the Orange Rotary Club not once but twice. Additionally, he held a role as Treasurer of the Orange Boat Club
Joel also made significant contributions during his military service. Enlisting in the Army's OCS, Joel bravely served in Vietnam and Korea with the 101st Airborne Division, ultimately achieving the rank of Captain. His exceptional service was honored with a Bronze Star. Joel's final military assignment saw him teaching ROTC at McNeese State University while pursuing his Masters of Business Administration—a testament to his unwavering dedication to continuous growth and learning.
Among Joel's many passions were sailboats and fishing. He found solace and joy on the open waters, creating cherished memories with his loved ones.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Ruth Lewitter.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kathleen; his daughter, Ellen Alderman and husband, Patrick of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; his sons, Patrick Steirman and wife, Holly of Willis, Texas, and Samuel Steirman of Lincoln, Nebraska; his brother, Barry Steirman and wife Jackie of Penngrove, New Jersey; his sister, Susan Glaser and husband Louis Glaser of The Villages, Florida; his grandchildren, Rachel and Megan Steirman of Orangville, Ontario, Oliver Alderman of Baton Rouge, and Abigail and Tyler Steirman of Willis; his sisters-in-law, Rosemary and Ellen Brennicke; his grandniece, Katie Brennicke of Seattle; and numerous other loving family members and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Temple Sinai in Lake Charles, Louisiana or Orange Christian Services.