Robert N. Castañeda Jr.

Robert Jr was born in San Jose, California on May 23, 1950, to Robert N. Castaneda, Sr. and Hope C. Castaneda. Raised and living most of his life in San Jose, he was a graduate of Overfelt High School in 1968 and received his master’s degree in Education from San Jose State University. Robert was a teacher in the San Jose Unified School District for many decades. He was affectionately known as “Mr. C” with the school children. From the time Robert was 18, he worked for the San Jose Parks and Recreation Department as Scorekeeper/Field Prep until 2002.

In 2002, Robert was a victim of an assault in San Jose. In 2003, he was relocated to Michigan to be under the care of his sister.

Robert spoke proudly about teaching and loved his students. He was also a lover of pets and music. For many years, you would find him enjoying a drive through San Jose listening to Carlos Santana and tapping his fingers like he was playing the drums. Even in later years, he was always the teacher encouraging everyone he met to learn Spanish.

Robert is survived by his sister, Sylvia Stuart, nephew Carlo Stuart (Kevin Autrey), great niece, Olivia Lucila Autrey-Stuart, cherished Tia, Lucila “Lucy” Sanchez, beloved cousins and family.

A Special note of Love, Gratitude and thanks to the EHM Senior Solution staff in Saline, Michigan who cared for Robert 18 years. During those years, the entire staff became Robert’s Michigan Family.