Isabel Perreira Castro

Isabella Perreira Castro, age 97, passed away on October 14, 2022.  She was born to Frank and Alexandrina Perreira, and she grew up in the small town of Gustine, Calif. Born in 1925 to immigrant parents from Terceira, an island in the Azores, her mother passed away when she was nine years old, and she helped to raise her younger siblings.

In 1940, Isabella married Mathew Castro, also of Gustine, and together they raised three children—daughters Kathleen and Kathryn, and a son, Kenneth.  Matt and Isabella were married nearly 60 years until his death in 2000.

Isabella’s values were driven by family and faith.  She was a devoted wife and mother, and the backbone of her family.  Along with her husband, she was a prominent member of the Portuguese community and active parishioner of Our Lady of Miracles Catholic Church. Together, Matt and Isabella served as President of the Our Lady of Miracles Celebration, three times—in 1965, 1986 (the 50th anniversary of the Festa when all past-presidents shared the role together), and finally in 1987.

Matt and Isabella also owned and operated the West Side Auction Yard in Newman, Calif., well known for having “Sales Every Tuesday” and impeccably run.

Isabella is survived by her two daughters, seven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, godchildren and friends whom she cherished.  She was preceded in death by her brothers Frank, Tony, and Joe Perreira; her sister, Mary Leavitt; beloved husband, Matt; and son, Kenneth.

A private family viewing will be held on November 2 at 4:00 p.m., followed by a public viewing at 5:00 p.m., and then a rosary at 6;00 pm at Hillview Funeral Chapel, 515 First Avenue, Gustine.  A mass to celebrate her life will be held on November 3 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Miracles Catholic Church, 370 Linden Avenue, Gustine, with a private family burial to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Our Lady of Miracles Catholic School, 370 Linden Avenue, Gustine, Calif., or Alexander Cohen Hospice House, 2201 Euclid Avenue, Hughson, Calif.

A special thanks to her grandson, Duane Horstmeier, and his wife, Shelbey, who helped to care for Isabella in the last two decades of her life.  She was an integral part of the Horstmeier family and will be greatly missed. 

The family would also like to acknowledge Miguel Castro, Isabella’s companion during the last 17 years, for the joy he brought to her life.

Services Conducted by Hillview Funeral Chapels, Gustine