Richard E. Castillo

Richard E. Castillo, a man who could solve any problem with a roll of duct tape, a witty quip, and a mischievous grin, has taken his final bow on this stage we call life. He was born in San Antonio, Texas in 1940. He approached life with a toolbox in one hand and a punchline in the other. Richard's journey came full circle as he passed away in the same city on April 9, 2024.

A graduate of Fox Tech High School's class of 1959, Richard was more than just a man who knew his way around a set of blueprints. His 40-plus years as a member of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association, Local 67, saw him shaping more than just metal; he shaped the skyline of San Antonio. From the Hemisfair Tower, which stood tall for the 1968 World's Fair, to the healing halls of the city's hospitals, Richard's handiwork is etched into the city's history. His skilled hands worked on the Methodist, University, Downtown Baptist and Nix Hospitals, the Incarnate Word Chapel, Convention Center Arena, and USAA to name just a few. And even after retirement, he continued serving on the apprentice board with the same vigor he brought to every project.

At home, Richard was the handyman extraordinaire, the one-man crew for every repair and renovation. His house and yard were the envy of the neighborhood, and he maintained them with the same dedication he gave to his work. His cabin at Medina Lake was his sanctuary, a place where he could get away, recharge, and return even more spirited. His daughters knew they had the best handyman on speed dial, and Richard never missed a chance to sprinkle a little magic dust on their homes or lend a hand with the grandkids.Weekends were sacred, reserved for twirling Esther around the dance floor and tapping his toes to the musica Mexicana that he loved. Friends and family knew that if Richard and Esther were going dancing, laughter and good music were guaranteed.

If the key to a rich life is love, then Richard hit the jackpot with his wife of 63 years, Esther Castillo. Together, they raised two daughters, Theresa Castillo-Martinez (husband Gabriel) and Rose Weeth (husband Scott), and spoiled their grandchildren Gabriela, Stevie, Charlie, Jake, Emerald, and Forrest, and grand-dog Monique, who were the apples of his eye and occasional accomplices in mischief.

As the curtain falls on Richard's extraordinary life, we remember him not with sorrow but with a smile. So, here's to Richard - a man whose legacy is built with more than just sheet metal, it's built with every laugh shared, every dance step taken, and every life touched. May the hammers be light, the punchlines be sharp, and the dance floors of heaven be ready. Keep dancing, Richard, and keep the angels laughing. We will always “love you too many!”

The family wishes to thank the caregivers at Seasons Alzheimer’s Care & Assisted Living for the undying devotion, care and love they provided to their “Riche.” We were blessed to have you in our lives, and we will always be grateful for you.

VISITATION AND ROSARYWednesday, April 17, 2024Visitation 5:00 PM; Mariachis 6:30 PM; Rosary 7:00 PMPORTER LORING MORTUARY1101 McCullough Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212

MEMORIAL SERVICEThursday, APRIL 18, 202411:00 AMSAN JUAN DE LOS LAGOS PARISH & SHRINE3231 El Paso St., San Antonio, TX 78207

You are invited to sign the Guestbook at www.porterloring.com

Arrangements withPORTER LORING MORTUARY1101 McCULLOUGH AVE.SAN ANTONIO, TX 78212 – (210) 227-8221