Joe R. Castillo

Joe Castillo was born on January 24, 1924 in Los Angeles, CA to Modesto and Ricarda Castillo. He was the youngest of nine brothers and sisters, three of whom died in childbirth or at a very early age. His father owned a pool hall and Joe spent his free time there perfecting his game. He loved all sports and followed USC, his favorite team, since he was a child. Joe joined the Army and was proud of his contribution in assisting the United States during WWII. Joe always had a passion and talent for drawing, especially drawing portraits and cartoons.

Joe met a wonderful woman named Margaret Gonzales who eventually became his wife on August 14, 1949. They had two children, John and Arleen. Joe worked for the San Gabriel School District for 44 years and for a short time later as a security guard at the San Gabriel Community Hospital. He was a hard worker and valuable asset to the school district and was awarded a certificate for most valuable employee. Besides being a school bus driver, Joe was a gardener and worked in the maintenance department. Joe and Margaret were married for 53½ years until she passed away on February 2, 2003. She spent two years at Fernview Convalescent Hospital and Joe visited her daily. Joe would bring her dishes that he created in the kitchen (nopales, huevos con chorizo, fruit with ice cream or candy). And if Joe would forget to bring her something, Margaret made sure he didn’t forget the next time. They shared a genuine love for one another that you don’t see every day.

Joe enjoyed spending his leisure time playing golf and pool, and going to the Santa Anita racetracks with his buddies from San Gabriel. He loved to read the Los Angeles Times from cover to cover, especially the sports section. Joe loved to sing and would sometimes burst into song when you least expected it. He had a great sense of humor and loved to tease and joke around.

Joe passed away on January 21, 2017, three days before his 93rd birthday. Although Joe is now gone, our memories of him will remain in our hearts forever.

Arrangements under the direction of Pierce Brothers Turner & Stevens Mortuary, San Gabriel, CA.