Juan leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Carmen M Castillo; his four children: Peter Castillo (Jill), Lois Campbell (Mark), Daniel Castillo and JJ Castillo; as well as seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his eldest brother Carlos Castillo, 96.
Juan Castillo, J.J., was born in Socorro, New Mexico on September 1, 1931,
the youngest of 7 children. After attending and graduating the University of New
Mexico he was a Captain in the US Air Force where he served as an Intelligence Officer in the Korean War. After the Air Force, he went to Cuba as the Director of American Schools in Nicaro, Cuba where he fulfilled his passion for teaching and met his future wife.
Juan attended American University for his Master’s degree and attended Georgetown University & Harvard University for different courses. He had a very interesting career working for president John F. Kennedy as a presidential appointee in charge of the Cuban Refugee Program and later he became the Assistant Regional Administrator for the US Department of Labor in Kansas City, Missouri and served
in that capacity until his retirement in the mid to late 80’s. After his retirement he continued to be involved with his community by serving 25 years on the Johnson County Sheriff’s Board and volunteering on many other committees throughout the community.
Juan leaves a legacy of love and integrity with his family and those who knew him.
He has left behind wonderful memories of a loving husband, grandfather, great-
grandfather and father. We are grateful for each and every day we got to see his
gregarious smile, feel his love, and for all the life lessons he taught us.
