John Manuel Castillo

John was born in Los Angeles, Ca. in May 1925 to Carmen and Francisco Castillo Vasquez. His mother, Carmen, was a homemaker and his father, Francisco, was a pharmaceutical salesman.

At an early age, John was immersed in the Catholic Church. He moved from Los Angeles, California to Guadalajara, Mexico at the age of nine. At the age of 17, he returned to the United States and joined the US Army where he fought in World War Il. During his time in the service, he met his first wife of 40 years, the lovely Frances Rosario Ochoa. They were blessed with a large and loving family of 6 children, he taught them writing, math, and respect through patience and discipline. John shared with his children how to be proud of their culture and took them on long trips to visit family in Mexico. John moved his family in 1963 to the San Gabriel Valley; he worked very hard, he was kind, soft spoken and always had time to answer questions. John was quick witted and was able to solve big or small problems. Because of his work ethic he was promoted quickly at each place he worked at. He was an Operations Manager at Riviera Furniture and Bailey & Schmidt’s. He was also co-owner of Easy- Rest Recliners.

After his divorce, John married his second wife, Emma. He was a faithful husband and beloved stepfather to her children. They both relocated to Phoenix, AZ where they continued to grow in devotion to the Catholic Church through work and charity. John served as a member of the Knights of Columbus of the 4th degree. He was proud of his membership and valued the degrees of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. John was proud of all his accomplishments from serving in WWII, his business achievements, his huge family, and of his love for God.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife Emma, his stepchildren Daniel, Mari, Isabel, Lupe, Claudio, his beautiful daughters Betty, Clara, Gloria, Frances (Pam), his son John Jr and by his grandchildren Robert, Tony, Eddie, James, Guy, Marina, Dorine, Antoinette, John-John, Jessica, Nichole, Noel, Joel, Nicholas, Brandon, Christopher and 25 great grandchildren!

He is preceded in death by parents Carmen and Francisco Castillo Vasquez, his beloved daughter Norma, sister Gloria, brother Hector and sister Norma.