Robert C. Castro, 89, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, August 11, 2026 surrounded by love. He was born February 5, 1937 in San Antonio, TX, the son of Julio and Nicolasa (Castillo) Castro. Robert married Guadalupe Gonzalez on June 30, 1956 in Delavan, WI. He was employed as a foreman machinist at George H. Spengler/ Michael's Machine, retiring in 2001. Robert was a devoted member of St. Bridget's Catholic Church for over 60 years. He was a hardworking man who was known to work two jobs to support his family, starting by having a paper route as a young child in San Antonio. Robert instilled a hard work ethic and perseverance in his children. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Dallas Cowboys fan. He was known for his passion for WWF wrestling. Robert had a great love for westerns, especially John Wayne and Audie Murphy. He enjoyed playing pool, poker and maintaining his lawn. Robert was known as "Mr. Fix it," he could always find a way to fix anything. He built an addition on the family home and maintained multiple rental properties flawlessly.
Robert is loved and missed by his children, Robert G. (Julie) Castro, Jr., Joe Castro, Brenda Castro and Rebecca (Tim) Brekke; grandchildren, Mary Mora, Juan Mora, Jessica (Kevin) Rodriguez, Austin Castro, Miraynda (Eddie) Salinas and Lauren Castro; eight great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; granddogs, Lucas, Archie and Abi; siblings, Reynaldo Castro, Connie Diaz and Gloria Eslora; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Guadalupe and siblings, Julio Castro, Jr., Teresa Campa, Carmella Gomez and Sipriano Castro.
A special thank you to the 3rd floor staff at PA Peterson and his incredible and caring hospice team from Northern Illinois Hospice, especially Meryll, Michelle, Shawna and Michelle for their loving and compassionate care of Robert.
