Estella Castillo's Obituary
Estella Castillo (Feb. 20, 1930 - July 3, 2022)
On July 3rd, 2022, Estella (Esther) Castillo passed away peacefully at the age of 92.
Estella was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great great-grandmother. She
will be laid to rest beside her deceased children Lita Chavez, Tony Zapata, and Rudy Zapata. She
is survived by her other children, Frank Zapata, Cecilia Zapata and Rosalie Ramirez. As well as
her grandchildren Fernando, Robert, Elizabeth, Lilia, Anthony, Wonda, Lenny, David C., Joseph,
James, Justin, Susan, Kitty, David, Angelica, Rocky, Angie and Jessie. She is also remembered
by her sister Lola, her sister-in-law Becky, as well as many of her loved cousins, nieces and
nephews, and additional relatives.
A Bay Area native, she was born in San Francisco and lived between there and Oakland
throughout her childhood. She also spent portions of her life living in Watsonville, Stockton, and
parts of Southern California. She eventually established roots in Fremont, and would bounce
between Fremont and Livermore to spend time with her family.
Estella enjoyed many things throughout her life. She was a proud Mexican woman and a
follower of Christ. She wasn’t afraid to share her faith. She loved her animals and she was
known to have multiple pets at a time. Companions such as birds, cats, and dogs could always
take refuge with her. She truly enjoyed music, no matter the beat you could always find Esther
dancing along. She cared for artists such as Vicente Fernandez, Eydie Gormé y Los Panchos,
Ana Gabriel, and Selena. She liked cooking, but she loved going out for ice cream or any sort of
sweet she could get her hands on. Stella was a traveler, and a more adventurous one than not. She
was known to take trips to places like Lake Tahoe with her sisters, Hawaii, Mexico, Caribbean, and other places across the country. From time to time, you could catch her at a night
out at the casino. She wasn’t afraid to play so to speak.
Estella has always had a strong spirit. Even with all the trials and hardships that came her
way, she was always sure to keep her head high and mind clear of doubts. She inspired many, not
knowing the impact she would have on their lives. She will be missed.
What’s your fondest memory of Estella?
What’s a lesson you learned from Estella?
Share a story where Estella's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Estella you’ll never forget.
How did Estella make you smile?
