Joseph Angelo Castro Sr.

Joe wanted everyone to know that 44 years ago he was baptized in the precious Name of Jesus Christ and filled with the Holy Ghost. March 11, in sub- zero temps he endured being emersed in a horse trough because the church lacked baptismal facilities inside. He was smoking three packs of cigarettes a day, he was drinking like a fish, and indulging in various street drugs. You could find him on a motor cycle riding on anybody’s dirt road.

God took it all away on that day, he never went through withdrawals of any type. From that day forward he dedicated his life to God and never looked back. You could find him working in church as a Deacon, operating sound equipment, handling needed repairs, or enjoying singing and testifying. At home he managed to slip in some jazz. Literally, Joe was a Jack of all trades and a master of many. He was a master mechanic on and off his job. Oftentimes, his love of helping people found him all over the place.

Joe wanted you to know: Always have faith in God.

This is what Joe wanted you to know about his fondest childhood memories.... growing up, he spent most summers with his grammy, she lived off the land. Anything his two brothers and aunt wanted to eat they got it from the farm: chickens, vegetables, fruits and so on. They had all kinds of big fun!

According to Joe: His love of God and country kept him driving on many camping adventures. Travel became his favorite past time. Every year he left it to Pat to select their next discovery. From mapping out camp grounds to boarding a cruise ship, he was always ready to go. Imagine, driving over 7,000 miles in five weeks headed West. What a time! He reverenced reconnecting with his oldest brother after many distant years.

Joe wanted you to know: “take time to smell the roses and see God’s creation. Life is short.” He was an incredible photographer, so he wanted you to also capture the beauty you so deserve.

According to Joe: he had collected close to 100 hats! One for any occasion. And if you were lucky, he’d send you home with one. He wanted you to know: Dress for success and let God do the rest.

According to Joe. . .he loved being with family. He enjoyed visiting, attending events, or just being by their side through tough times. Joe was a family man who cherished his parents and often cared for them. His children were loved and admired. They spent many weekends, holidays and summers with their dad and step-mom who always provided a warm home. You could even find him travelling to Georgia to help his stepson with many home projects.

Joe wanted you to know: “Love and be there for your family. He wanted each of you to know how much he loved and appreciated you. And, to put God first in your life.

According to Joe...he tolerated Pat’s pets for 40 years! She had four dogs up until four years ago when Missy and Lady Princess were adopted. Joe absolutely adored Lady Princess, who became his confidant. They truly bonded in latter times.

Joe wanted you to know: Love your wife regardless of your differences.”

According to Joe: he cherished Pat with his whole heart. Anyone around them could feel that soul connection. He would always say: “I love you just the way you are: You and me forever.”

** Obituary of Joseph Angelo Castro, Sr.**

Joseph Angelo Castro Sr. was born December 5, 1949 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Coleman and Gwen Castro. He passed away peacefully on September 25, 2024 at the age of 74 years, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was a loving husband of 43 years to Patricia Castro and father to Antoinette, Joseph Jr. (Regina), and Andre (Shaina); step-father to Jere (Tracy) Mays, Jr. He was a devoted grandfather to Danielle Boyers, Anita Castro, Ariella Castro, Cedric Castro,Charlotte Castro, Hunter Castro, Alyssa Hopper, David Jenkins Jr., Eboni and Autumn. Joseph was also a beloved brother to Coleman (Gail) and Tom (Kaye), and he leaves behind many cherished great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Joseph took great pride in his work as a master mechanic at the University of Michigan for 16 years. He was known for his generosity, always willing to share his knowledge and time to help others with home and car repairs. In his spare time, Joseph served as a Deacon at Bethlehem Temple Church in Jackson, MI, where he enjoyed working the sound board during services. His faith and dedication to his community were evident in all that he did. Joseph will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith.

The family will receive friends for visitation at Burden & Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home (1806 E. Michigan Ave. Jackson, 49202) on Monday, October 7, 2024 from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M. A memorial service will be held at Bethlehem Temple (1403 Pringle Ave, Jackson MI 49203) on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 11am.