Manuel J. Castano was born on November 16, 1959, in Havana, Cuba, and passed away on October 25, 2026, in Seattle, Washington. Manuel immigrated to the United States in August 1962 with his family. His father, Rev. Dr. Cleofas Castaño, dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel, taking the family from Florida to Maryland, Michigan, and eventually Seattle, Washington, where they made their home.
Manuel grew up in Seattle's Wallingford neighborhood, where he formed many of the lifelong friendships he treasured. He attended Interlake, Hamilton, and Lincoln High School. The relationships he built during his childhood remained an important part of his life and his story.
A lover of music, long drives, and fast cars, Manuel never shied away from singing his favorite songs or chirping the tires of one of his beloved cars. He appreciated life's simple pleasures and the memories made along the way.
Above all else, Manuel loved his roots, his family, his children, and most importantly, his grandchildren. His love for his family was unwavering, and his grandchildren held an especially treasured place in his heart.
Manuel was preceded in death by his Father, Rev. Dr. Cleofas Castaño; his Mother, Blanca Nieves Castaño; his Sister, Sarah Izenbart; and Brother in-laws; Phil Hendricksen and Ken Izenbart.
He is survived by his children, Anthony Castano, Sarah Castano, and Alexander Castaño; his beloved grandchildren, Lucia and Liliana Fuentes, Chelsea and Orlando Castano, and Mina Castano; and his sister, Ruth Hendricksen. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and lifelong friends who loved him dearly.
The love our dad had for us will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on through his children, his grandchildren, and the countless lives he touched.
