It was about 10 years ago that I was fortunate enough to move onto Glimmerglass Ave.  At the same time, Andrea probably wasn’t so happy about her move into the house right next door to me. I was known as that annoying/happy neighbor that just would stop waving or go away. 😀  But what she didn’t know was that was the best thing that ever happened to me. I went through a very hard time in my life, and was very alone. Not having any family members in town made me feel very alone (while trying to raise a baby girl by myself). Andrea become my best friend and sister.  I couldn’t thank her or her family enough for the open arms and continual food they fed us with. They invited me to every family event, meal, ceremony, etc. They really made me feel welcomed and at home. John was at the core of that. Every time I arrived, I was greeting with a huge hug. He would sit next to me, check on my daughter, talk to me and really make me feel at ease. He was continually caring for everyone in his family, but also making sure I felt comfortable as well. Last summer my family was fortune enough to join in on a family vacation with them. One of those nights we went to Cora & John’s room where they catered dinner. It was on the balcony that I saw John’s  love for photography.  He pure joy and passion while he made sure to capture  a photo of a praying mantis, which had climbed its way up to his balcony, for his granddaughter Kayla whom wasn’t with us.  He was determined to capture that photo for her. He was in his element. And I will treasure that memory and more. He was truly one of the kindest, most thoughtful, reliable and humble men I have ever met. I am honored to have spent any time with him and his family. 

I had the opportunity to meet John when I worked with his wife Cora.  It was easy to become fast friends with John.  A shot of Tequila often helped the process along.  John and Cora were very  giving of their friendship.  I had numerous opportunities to spend time with John , Cora, and family over a number of holidays.  They always made us feel welcome in their home.  Like family.  For that I will be forever grateful.  I will miss John and only wish I had more time to spend with him.  My heartfelt prayers for Cora and the entire family who have suffered the loss of such a wonderful man.

What can I say? I can’t say how I feel... because those who know me understand I have the language of a sailor. But what I can say is that we were so damn lucky to have you in our lives. So lucky you and mom met by chance, fate, a real blessing.  Only a love, a bond, a true soulmate could’ve taken on 3 girls that weren’t easy on you as children (but kids are generally asses to begin with) making no excuses there. But nonetheless you stayed, and thank god! Because we had an amazing life with you, every time I was in trouble, I called you, not mom, but you, because you never yelled, got upset, you calmly diffused any situation because at the end of it all, you showed me nothing is that bad. You showed me each time, this too shall pass. Then we grew up, our bond even closer, appreciation even greater because as a parent myself, I would use your logic and ask myself, what would papa say to me? So I used your guidance and I got a hell of a kid who turned out so incredible.  You were always there for us, through the rock bottoms we hit to living the life. All the trips, all the memories, they make me smile because we were so happy, especially you, seeing you happy made me happy.  I only wanted the best for you even if you didn’t care what it was, you appreciated the thought. Papa likes tequila? Then papa only gets the best, no bottom shelf bs, he gets the best.  Because that’s what you deserved. I could never say no to you, although you never did ask for anything, it didn’t matter, I would see something and say oh papa would love this, and surprise you anyway.  Now you’re gone, just like that. No warning, no illness, no chance to say goodbye, nothing. Just gone. A day trip gone tragic.  I’m trying real hard to make up excuses like, god said it was your time. But I don’t believe that, I can’t, not yet anyway. Because I’m upset and I’m trying really hard not to be.  But heaven wants their angels, and god took you, I don’t blame him, only saints allowed.  Love you forever.

Uncle John,

I still remember as a child living with you and Tita Ason out in Burbank with my mom, sister and brother. Because of the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, we were displaced without a home and you and Tita lovingly welcomed us into yours. I was able to go to John Muir Middle School, where I played basketball and football. You were always there for me, you took me to practices and games when you didn’t have to, and you cheered me on. You always had a great attitude and I will never forget it. 

Uncle John, you went away to soon! The love  you had for us, especially your love for Tita and the girls will be truly missed! May you Rest In Peace!!! Cheers to you and I hope you’re having your  favorite Tequila in heaven! I appreciate you and we love you!!! 

John, we can’t believe that you’re gone. How can you describe this man? Loving, caring, friendly, good hearted, easy going, always has a smile on his face but most of all loved his Corazon, his daughters and grandchildren.  We’ve known you for many many years and I can truly say you’re one of the best man  I’ve ever met. 
Rest In Peace my friend and I know you will be the guiding light for your Corazon and your family. 

As a child, I remembered the first time meeting you, being married to the love of your life, Tita Cora in Hawaii.  I remembered the smiles on  your faces as you gazed at each others eyes to say "I do".     Hawaii was like your second home and brought  you both so much joy.  You had a great sense of humor, sarcasms, and jokes that made me remember you, just by being you, "Uncle John".     You also took my brother and I to Disneyland and first time to San Diego Zoo when we visited California in that old school van.   When we moved to California, you gave me my first summer  job at your Photo Shop and taught me how to be responsible. You made everyone around you feel welcomed  and always represented where you are from.     Last time we were together, we had a great conversation during lunch at one of your favorite Mexican spot. You kept me up to date with the family and showed so much passion with your words and detailed descriptions about each of your daughters and your grandkids.   You were the same person as when I first me you unc, kind, considerate, respectful, and most of all loving to Tita Cora.  I know you are looking down and watching them.  Your were taken away so soon, you will be greatly missed Tito John!

I remember the first time I met John  he gave me that look of thank god someone is here to take Michelle off my hands. He would always check to see if was still around. That proves John had great judgement  and was happy I was still around after a week. I watched him take care of my mother in law when she was going through ruff times never leaving her side until she became strong again. There will always be a special place in my heart for John as a veteran of the armed forces we owe him a debt of gratitude. Rest In Peace John you will be missed and every time we look up we will see your image in the sky. Amen !!!!

Dear papa, 
I’m so grateful for the memories we created at your house while I was growing up. Although as a child, I thought you were mean and would always ruin my fun of hiding Rollie-pollies in your house, I appreciate everything you have done for our family. You always made sure we were safe, and your sarcastic jokes never failed to light up a room. I appreciate how much you loved Yaya and how you cared for her when our family was too crazy for her to handle. You understood her and never failed to make her feel special. I know you’re watching down on us now. We all hope to make you proud, we love and miss you. 

Papa,

I know I wasn’t always your favorite, in fact I definitely know I wasn’t but I didn’t care because I know you loved each one of us. You were always a great father to us, and a great husband to my annoying mother lol  jk , and I know I never said how much I loved and appreciated you until now. I can’t believe you are gone I feel like I had just seen you so happy and looking forward to spending the rest of your days with mom and suddenly gone in an instant. You were stolen from us. I still can’t believe you’re gone. We miss you and there were still so many memories to create. I will miss you and our little arguments.  I love you. 

So many memories growing up with Uncle John but the ones that stood out the most were family gatherings at the cottage on Crystal Lake.  Uncle John always made sure we had fun activities for all of cousins and root beer floats on tap at all times.  He always had a smile and knew how to make you feel better.  His eye for the beauty of the world shown through his talent in photography.  To say he will be missed is not enough.  Words cannot describe how heartbroken our family is.   

The memory that stands out for me is how much John loved his Cora and how much he loved his kids.  Cora and John were inseparable.
He was just the kindest of men.  In all the years I've known him he was never without a smile.  (Except maybe at Southpoint if Cora wouldn't get going ) :)
 I am grateful for the 19+ years we have know him.  
I am more grateful  that my dear friend Cora was able to  experience years of a love , a marriage so incredible that most of us never experience in a lifetime.  
Our Cora will keep the memories and love in her heart for ever.  We are all better for knowing John.   Love all of you.

I've called you papa all my life, but you are indeed DAD. You are the most amazing man I have ever known. What you did for our family is immeasurable. Thank you for all that you were. CJ and I love you and miss you every single day of our lives. You were taken far too soon. We will NEVER forget you. We will forever hold onto those memories we were SO lucky to have with you. We love you with all our heart and soul. 

My Papa was so full of love, life, and laughter. We are all going to miss his pancakes on Christmas and him taking so, so many pictures of us in Hawaii (even the bad ones). Thank you, Papa, for filling my world with love. Thank you for all of the quiet conversations that made me appreciate life a little more when everyone else was yelling. Thank you for all of the “No’s” I heard growing up. Thank you for for being everyone’s rock and loving all of us unconditionally. We miss you. 

OBITUARY

Chris Del Castillo

September 12, 1981 – April 30, 2019

Mt. View Mortuary & Cemetery

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