Leland "Sonny" Henry Castro

With hearts both heavy and full of love, we announce the passing of Leland H. “Sonny” Castro, on March 2, 2024, at the age of 77, in his lifelong home of Visalia, California. Born to Leland Gilbert Castro and Mary Lujan Casarez on August 2, 1946, Sonny was the adored eldest son in a family bound by deep mutual love and respect. His father, a WWII hero, was awarded the Distinguished Silver Star for valor, and his mother instilled in him the virtues of service and compassion that would define his entire life.

Leland’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication: as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal brother, a decorated Vietnam veteran, and a steadfast friend whose influence reached across many communities. His life was a beacon of kindness, service, and love, deeply impacting the Vietnam Veterans, Native American, PG&E, and Visalia communities through his generous spirit, infectious humor, and boundless compassion.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 46 years, Anna Marie Castro, who he married on October 5, 1978. He is lovingly remembered by his son, Leland J. Castro III., and his daughter, RoseAnn Castro-Denton, son-in-law Johnny L. Denton and his biological lineage continues through his cherished granddaughter, Emma Rose Denton. Additionally, Sonny embraced and was equally embraced by Anna Marie’s children—Rick Mireles, Sharon Beatty, Carmen Harris, Lillian Coleman, Frank Mireles and Debbie Sandoval—as his own, nurturing them with the same depth of love and guidance, and extending this unwavering affection to her children, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Together, forming a family united not by labels, but by love.

Leland is survived by his Aunt Carmelita Bertoldo, Aunt Delores Pesqueira, his many cousins and his siblings Betty Herrera, Richard Castro, Jim Castro, David Castro, and George Castro, Starla Hassard, Michelle Knight, Shawn Castro, Toni Rabe and Terry Castro, each carrying forward the lessons and love he imparted. He was preceded in death by his Grandparents Carmelita and Salvador Castro, Father Leland Gilbert Castro Sr., Mother Mary Lujan Casarez , Aunt Clorinda Mejia, Uncle Frank Mejia, Uncle Orval Castro, brother Ronnie Castro and sister Rosalie Ortiz.

Leland’s distinguished service in the United States Navy, including four combat tours in Vietnam aboard the USS Midway and USS Constellation and a crucial “Boots on the Ground” mission, showcased his bravery and dedication to his country. This same commitment was mirrored in his devotion to his heritage as a proud descendant of the Tule River Reservation.

After his honorable discharge, Leland achieved an Associate of Arts degree from College of the Sequoias and a Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Fresno, laying the groundwork for a fulfilling 35-year career with Pacific Gas & Electric Company. In his roles as Project Manager and Interconnection Coordinator for Cogeneration Projects, he demonstrated his exceptional skill and work ethic.

Retirement did not diminish Leland’s passion for advocacy; rather, he redoubled his efforts in support of veterans and Native Americans. His leadership and membership in numerous organizations, including AMVETS Post 22, the American Legion Post 785, Disabled American Veterans Post 643, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1864, and the American GI Forum—where he served as California State Commander—underscored his enduring commitment to service, including a 2022 Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. with Johnny Denton as his guardian to honor Vietnam, Korea and WWII veterans. His roles in the Tule River Native Veterans Post 1987 Color Guard, the Indigenous Warriors Flag Group, the American Indian Veterans Association, and the Patriot Guard Riders of Tulare County are testaments to a life dedicated to serving those he loved.

Leland ”Sonny” Castro’s legacy is a rich tapestry of love, service, and dedication that will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. His life’s work, especially his unwavering support for veterans, and his role as the true community pillar of our family for over 50 years, will forever be remembered and cherished. Leland’s love for his family, his prayers for their well-being, and his service to his community and fellow veterans were the cornerstones of his life.

In honoring Leland’s memory, we are reminded of a life wonderfully lived and the countless lives he enriched. Let us continue his legacy of service, love, and unwavering support for one another. Farewell, dear “Sonny”, until we meet again.

A Rosary for Sonny will be held at Miller Memorial Chapel 1120 West Goshen Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291 on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at 6:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will be held at Miller Memorial Chapel on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 9:00 AM followed by interment at Visalia Public Cemetery District at 12:00 noon.

Tributes and condolences for Sonny's family may be made at www.millerchapel.com.