Robert Rafael Fernandez de Castro

Robert Rafael Fernandez de Castro, age 59, quietly passed away on Monday, May 4, 2015 at his townhouse on Pensacola Beach surrounded by his wife, children, family and friends. He was the beloved husband of Sharon Byrne Fernandez de Castro, father of Roland "Ziggy" Fernandez de Castro and father-in-law of Samantha F. de Castro. He had one beautiful granddaughter, Taylor.

Robert was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 10, 1955 and resided in Destrehan. He was preceded in death by both his Cuban born parents; mother, Estrella Fernandez de Castro, his father, Robert Fernandez de Castro and also preceding him was his brother-in-law John Byrne. Robert is survived by his sisters, Estrellita Culotta (Pete) and Tania Griener; his brothers-in-law, Keven (Mary Ann), Steve (Alicia) and Chris (Mary Louise) Byrne and numerous nieces and nephews, all who adored him.

He worked with his father and mother in the family operated molding business, Robert F. de Castro Inc., for over 30 years. He then opened his own business, ALDEC International, to which he devoted the last 10 years of his life. Being a successful businessman and having to frequently travel internationally, his number one priority was to be with his wife, family and friends. His other passions were his fishing, boating, his beloved dogs, music, dancing and intriguing everyone to partake in his "Boat Juice" concoction.

Family and friends are invited to attend the memorial visitation which will be held at St. Charles Borromeo, 13396 River Road in Destrehan on Thursday, May 28, 2015. Visitation will be from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. with Mass following. Interment will be at Lakelawn Park Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society, 2605 River Road, New Orleans, LA 70121 under the name of Robert de Castro along with his address.