Ernest Castillo

Ernest Castillo, age 85, passed away on June 17, 2026. Born on July 28th 1940 to Ernest and Emilia Castillo, Ernest was raised in Dallas, TX, where he attended Crozier Tech in 1958. From an early age, he carried himself with a steady sense of purpose as someone who met each season of life with diligence and a quiet, enduring strength.

Ernest served in the United States Navy from August 1959 to July of 1964, a chapter marked by commitment and discipline. He later worked as a personal trainer at Larry North, bringing the same work ethic to his profession that he brought to all he undertook, and offering others the benefit of his steady encouragement and care.

In 1960, Ernest married Yolanda Villarreal. Together they built a life with their three children. In the home he helped shape, his presence was both grounding and guiding as he was widely recognized as the leader of his family, and deeply cherished by those who knew him best.

Ernest found joy and meaning in staying active and continually learning. He enjoyed exercising and running marathons, completing a remarkable total of 29 marathons. He also enjoyed camping, spending time with his family, and learning about the biomechanics of the human body. These interests reflected a disciplined mind, a generous spirit, and a lifelong respect for what the human body can achieve through perseverance.

Ernest will be remembered with gratitude and respect for the life he lived: hard-working in all responsibilities, kind-hearted in his relationships, and cherished for the steady love and leadership he gave to those around him.

He is survived by his wife, Yolanda Castillo; Sons, Xavier, Tom and Zachary; Brothers, Rudy Castillo and Alex Castillo; Sisters, Dolores Marquez, Olivia Ybarbo, Emma Hernandez, Candie Minter and Lupita Rincon and grandchildren Zane Castillo, Josephine Castillo, Ava Castillo, and Zeke Castillo.