Manuel S. Casillas Jr.

Manuel S. Casillas Jr., passed away February 23rd, 2015 after 98 years of a life filled with love, respect and admiration from everyone that knew him. He was born January 26th, 1917 and lived in El Paso's Lower Valley his entire life. He was preceded in death by his wife of 76 years, Gorgonia Casillas, and his three sons Francisco, Jose and Alberto Casillas. He is survived by his children Lorenzo and Sara Casillas, Marta and Alfred Martinez, Estella and Chris Ramirez, Jerry and Juanita Casillas, Samuel and Melinda Casillas, Ramon and Susan Casillas, 22 Grandchildren, 29 Great-Grandchildren and 2 Great- Great- Grandchildren. He served proudly in the European theater during WWII where he received the Purple Heart. Upon returning home he worked as a Diesel mechanic at Ft. Bliss until he retired. He and Gorgonia then moved to San Jose, California where he worked for the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Local 393 for 15 years. In 1993 he and Gorgonia returned home to El Paso to live out the rest of their lives. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Visitation will be Thursday, February 26, 2015 from 6-9pm at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church with Vigil service at 7pm. Funeral Mass at 8:45am Friday, February 27, 2015 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.