Arthur Castanon

Arthur Castañon, 68, of Plano, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Art’s warmth, humor, and steadfast love will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those whose lives he touched.

Born on June 27, 1957, in San Antonio, Texas, Art was the son of Arthur S. Castañon and Guadalupe Maria Castañon. As part of an Air Force family, Art’s early years were filled with travel and adventure. From Okinawa’s shores to exploring new cities around the world, these travels instilled in him an early sense of discipline, curiosity, and gratitude that remained throughout his life.

A proud graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, Art was the first in his family to earn a college degree, a bachelor’s degree in accounting & finance. He carried that achievement as a badge of honor. A loyal Roadrunner, he stayed connected to his alma mater and was known for his generosity. Professionally, Art dedicated his career to Navistar Financial Corporation, GE Capital, and Commercial Credit Group, where he was a highly respected and beloved colleague. His work took him to places including Chicago, Puerto Rico, Colombia, and Mexico City, and wherever he went, he made lasting friendships and was admired for his work ethic, attention to detail, and sense of humor.

In 1975, Art met the love of his life, Yolanda R. Castañon. They were married in Poteet, Texas, and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and family. This past September, they celebrated 48 wonderful years of marriage, a testament to their unwavering devotion and partnership. Art and Yolanda raised three daughters, Dr. Michelle Castañon, Julie Castañon-Brashears, and Jessica Castañon, whom he adored deeply and supported endlessly. Family meant everything to him; as the patriarch of the Castañon family, Art led by example—teaching through his actions the importance of integrity, humility, and love.

Every morning began the same for Art—coffee with two creams and two sugars, Tejano music playing in the background, and the Dallas Morning News in hand. His “Good Morning” text messages and daily “Cholo” jokes sent to the family group chat were small but meaningful reminders of his enduring presence and affection. He loved spoiling his grandchildren, Robert Andres Maurer, Mikaela Leigh Castañon-Brashears, and Olivia Peyton Castañon-Brashears with donuts, hugs, and laughter. He was also known for his mastery of the grill, creating delicious steak, brisket, smoked turkey, and barbacoa for family gatherings.

Art generously gave his time, faith, and support to others. A long-time parishioner of St. Mark’s Catholic Church, he and Yolanda were active members for nearly four decades. He also supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, reflecting his lifelong desire to help those in need.

Art is survived by his devoted wife, Yolanda; his mother, Guadalupe Maria Castañon; his daughters, Dr. Michelle Castañon, Julie Castañon-Brashears, and Jessica Castañon; his sister, Marcella Rodriguez; and his brother, Orlando Castañon. He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur S. Castañon.

A Rosary and Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 22nd at 6:00 p.m. at Ted Dickey Funeral Home in Plano, Texas, followed by a Funeral Mass on Thursday, October 23rd at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Plano, Texas.

Te amaremos por siempre, papá.