José Ángel Sustaita, 74 yrs old, of Austin, Texas, passed away at home on January 30, 2023, after a battle with Alzheimer’s.
José was born on April 18, 1948, to Tomas Sustaita and Margarita Torres Sustaita in Harlingen, Texas. In 1960 the family moved to Austin where he graduated from William B. Travis High School in 1968.
After graduating José worked with the Austin State Hospital and retired as a Supervisor of the Geriatric Unit after 29 years. After retirement he heard his calling from the Lord and went to Seminary School to become a Lutheran Pastor. You could find him spreading the good word in Mission, TX at Trinity Lutheran Church. He later retired in Austin, Texas after several years of preaching.
José was the second to the youngest of his siblings. He leaves behind 2 sisters, Mary Dalton, Seneca Falls, NY and Vira Hatherly, Kyle, TX; 2 brothers, Tomas Sustaita & Samuel Sustaita, Austin, TX; 2 sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Sustaita and Terry Sustaita, Austin, TX and 1 brother-in-law, Walton Hatherly, Kyle, TX. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents, Tomas and Margarita Sustaita; brothers, Salvador Sustaita Sr. and Luis Sustaita; and his sister, Evelyn Garza; as well as brother-in-laws, Lupe Garza & David Dalton.
Though José never had any children, his nieces and nephews were like his own. He would take them to the movies, on trips, and shared his knowledge of plants. He loved feeding the birds and visiting with family and friends.
Even before becoming a pastor José was very much a man of faith and involved with his church, St. Johns-San Juan Lutheran Church. He was always there to lend a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or provide some comedic relief. José was a pillar to his family and his church community. He will be deeply missed.
John 11:25-26. Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die.”
We remember José's family and friends in our prayers and trust that the promise of the Resurrection is true and sure.
In Christ,
Bishop Sue Briner
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