Francisco "Paco" Castillo

Francisco "Paco" Castillo of Hartford, beloved husband and best friend for 55 years of the late Sonia Margarita Carmona Castillo, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. He courageously fought a very aggressive form of Parkinson's disease with strength and determination, while also carrying a broken heart after the loss of his beloved wife.

Paco was born on August 3, 1946, in Añasco, Puerto Rico, son of the late Rosa Vásquez and Francisco Castillo Miranda, and migrated to Hartford in the mid-60s, where he built the life he cherished so deeply. Shortly after arriving, he met the love of his life, Sonia, when she answered the door at "Angel's House," a moment he always described as love at first sight. Together, they created a beautiful life, welcoming their first daughter, Marisol, in 1972, and their youngest, Doreen, in 1980, and built a home filled with love, devotion, and family.

Paco was the foundation of his family and devoted his life to providing for those he loved, working tirelessly for many years before retiring at the age of 76. His strong work ethic and drive inspired his family to be the best they could be every day. Through both his words and actions, he taught his children and grandchildren the value of family, respect, generosity, kindness, and unconditional love. He encouraged their dreams and supported them in every way, taking immense pride in watching his granddaughters achieve their multiple college degrees.

Paco enjoyed playing in town softball leagues and proudly supported his team as a catcher. He was an avid fan of his beloved Boston Red Sox and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on. Paco found joy in life's simple pleasures, going out to dinner with his other half, taking late-night trips to the casino, and watching movies with his family at home or occasionally at the theater. The Christmas holidays were among his favorite times, especially when friends and family gathered to play instruments and sing along during Parrandas. Summer cookouts at home were also cherished moments, filled with laughter, music, and a shared love of good food.

Travel was limited for Paco, but whenever he did venture away, his heart always led him back to his Isla del Encanto. His happy place was lying in a hammock, feeling the island breeze, and enjoying a tub of coconut ice cream. He also loved spending time cheering on the Indios de Mayagüez moments filled with pride, joy, and a deep connection to his home.

Paco leaves to celebrate his life, his daughters, Marisol Castillo and Doreen Castillo; his grandchildren, Sierra L. Glasgow, Madison E. Glasgow, Christopher L. Lopez, and Alexis R. Lopez; great grandchildren, Melena Lopez and Christopher Lopez, Jr.; his sister, Blanca Serrano and her husband Edil Ortega; his brother, Jose M. Sanchez; and many loving brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews, who will forever cherish his memory.

In addition to the love of his life, Sonia, and his parents, Paco was predeceased by his stepdaughter, Luz "Lucy" Esther Arocho.

His family will receive friends on Sunday, February 15, 12-3 p.m., with a Prayer Service, 3 p.m., at the Lodge Community Chapel, 130 Deerfield Rd., Windsor.

Burial will be private.