Lucy "Luz" Castillo

Lucy, born Luz Moreno, made a peaceful transition to heaven to join her husband, Arthur Castillo on June 30. She died at home of natural causes after a long and happy life. Lucy was surrounded by family and loved ones. She was 94.

Lucy was born in Placentia, one of eleven children born to Frances and Refugio Moreno. She is survived by sisters Christina and Lupe and brothers Gabriel and Anthony.

She will be deeply missed by her family: children Rose Bennett, Art and Pamela Castillo, Ken and Gwen Castillo, and Celia and Larry Mathiesen. Nine grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren also mourn her loss.

Family gatherings were special events for Lucy. On Sundays she and Art would host a family breakfast of menudo and homemade, hand rolled flour tortillas! Preparation began on Saturday morning when Art and Lucy would shop for the needed ingredients. The menudo would be ready by evening. Some of us could not wait until morning and enjoyed menudo on Saturday night. Everyone looked forward to this weekly traditional meal where family gathered and friends were always welcomed. In later years the family tried to continue the tradition but no one could replicate the deliciousness of the menudo. It was more than a combination of ingredients.

Lucy and Art’s annual family Christmas gathering was a quite a production. Planning began in summer and all took part in preparation - from polishing the garage floor and decorating, to preparing food and helping Santa arrive on time. Lucy, the perfect hostess, refused to sit until she was sure everyone was having a good time.

Lucy and Art were blessed with a marriage of 74 years. They gathered with friends often - a group of “Dance Friends,” some of whom they’d known since elementary school. The Dance Friends all loved ballroom dancing. They were a joy to watch as they danced to the music of the 40’s. They traveled together as well, visiting Europe, Canada and various states. During their last travel adventure, Art and Lucy had the privilege of attending their great grandson Jarrett’s college graduation in Flagstaff, AZ. They adored and took pride in all their grandchildren.

It was later in life that Lucy would often share treasured memories. With a smile and a twinkle in her eye, she would recount stories from days long before any of us were around. One of her favorites was the story of how she and Art first met. Each of them told it differently but in the end, given her feistiness, Lucy’s story was the one we all held true.

Lucy’s passing is bittersweet. She would often express missing Arthur and looked forward to joining him. We are all stricken by her loss but also rejoice in knowing that she has joined the love of her life in a better place. They are dancing once again.