Baudelio Castro Velarde

July 8, 1927 – July 7, 2025

Baudelio Castro Velarde passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, just one day before his 98th birthday, in California. Born on July 8, 1927, in Mexico, Baudelio lived a full and meaningful life built on love, hard work, and family.

He was married to the love of his life, Catalina Velarde, for 62 beautiful years. They met through his sister Rosa, who just so happened to be Catalina’s best friend.

Together, Baudelio and Catalina built a strong and loving family and a life rich in memories.

Baudelio worked in construction and was a proud member of Laborers Local 652. He was the embodiment of dedication and taught those around him the value of hard work—not with words, but by example. Even more than his work, though, he will be remembered for his warm, unforgettable smile.

He was a devoted father to four children: Alberto (Al), Lorena, Ricky (predeceased), and Rosie. His love and pride extended to his grandchildren and great-grandchild. Recently, he joyfully declared that his great-granddaughter Elise was his favorite—and everyone was happy to let her have that title.

Baudelio had a quiet strength and a progressive heart. He made it his mission to raise independent daughters, teaching them how to change a tire and change the oil—lessons that reflected his deep belief that they should never have to depend on anyone else to get by. "You can do everything on your own," he’d often say.

He was known to be a little klutzy at times—something that made him all the more endearing—and he had a deep love for the outdoors. He spent hours tending to his yard, where he grew all kinds of fruits and proudly cared for several varieties of avocado trees. He loved fishing and often took his children on fishing trips, creating memories they still treasure today.

Baudelio also found joy and companionship in his senior club and laborers' club, where he enjoyed friendships and community in his later years.

Baudelio is preceded in death by his beloved son Ricky Velarde. He is survived by his wife Catalina Velarde; his children Al Velarde, Lorena Velarde, and Rosie Velarde; his son-in-law Gerardo Lopez; his grandchildren Brianna Acuesta (and her husband Eric Dominguez), Christian Acuesta, and Matthew Velarde; and his great-granddaughter Elise Dominguez, who brought him endless joy.

He is also remembered with love by his honorary children: Jenny Rebaldo, Kelly Rebaldo, Brian Robitaille, and Anjelique Granados, as well as honorary grandchildren Alissa Quintero, Ava Acuesta, and Ben Quintero.

Baudelio was hardworking, loving, supportive, and honorable—a man whose legacy will live on in all those he touched. His was a life well-lived and deeply cherished.

Services:

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 10am to 12:00 PM in the Main Chapel at Westminster Memorial Park, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. A graveside ceremony will follow in the Garden of Angels at Westminster Memorial Park