Richard Cansino Castilleja

Richard Cansino Castilleja, a man whose laughter and tales were as grand and enduring as the great state of Texas from which he hailed, embarked on his final journey on April 15, 2025. Born on August 24, 1942, in San Antonio, TX, Richard's life was a rich tapestry woven with joy, faith, and an unshakeable love for Alma Siller Castilleja who he married at an early age of 17, they raised 9 children, a love for his family, who were his pride and joy. His devotion to his childrenRichard, Robert, Alma, Roland, Abby, Roger, Randy, Ronny, and Rubenwas the stuff of legend. His heart may have broken with the loss of his daughter Abby and two grandsons Vincent and Roland Jr., but it was large enough to encompass his 19 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom added a sparkle to his eye and a story to his ever-growing collection. He bade the world farewell from his home in Menifee, CA, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy as vibrant as a sunset over the Rio Grande.
A true Texan at heart, Richard never lost his fondness for his roots, even though he became a long-haul legend of the highways. For 45 years, he was the king of the road, a truck driver who navigated the asphalt sea with the ease of a cowboy riding the plains. His rig was his steed, his cargo his trusty sidekick, and the open road his frontier. Richard's journey through life was fueled by a passion for his Christian faith, the wild west, and all things classicespecially his gleaming black '65 Chevy Impala, which was as much a part of him.
His love for Westerns was not just a pastime; it was a lens through which he viewed the world. Richard could outdraw John Wayne in a quick-draw contest of wit, and his favorite quote, 'Well cut my legs, and call me shorty!' was as legendary as Johnny Cash's baritone. He cherished his classic car, not just for its chrome curves and roaring engine, but because, like himself, it was a symbol of a bygone era of American grit and determination.
Richard was a raconteur, a man whose stories could fill a room with laughter and whose sharp wit could make even the sternest of faces crack a smile. His tales were as big as his home state, and his children and grandchildren were often the stars of these homespun yarns. He boasted of their achievements with a pride that could rival any peacock, and his exceptional work ethic was his gift to thema legacy more valuable than any treasure.
Richard's life was a testament to the power of laughter, the strength of faith, and the warmth of love. He was faith-filled, funny, and loving, a combination that made him not just a good man, but a great one. His memory will be cherished, his stories retold, and his laughter will echo in the hearts of those who loved him.
As we bid farewell to Richard Cansino Castilleja, let us do so with a smile, for that is how he would have wanted it. Let's imagine him riding off into the sunset in his '65 Chevy convertible, a trail of chuckles in his wake, and a heavenly chorus singing a Johnny Cash tune. To a life well-lived, we tip our hats. Adios, Richard, and thanks for the memories.
Services
Viewing
Wednesday
April 30, 2025
4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Evans Brown Mortuary -Sun City
27010 Encanto Dr
Sun City, CA 92585
Funeral Service
Thursday
May 1, 2025
9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Evans Brown Mortuary -Sun City
27010 Encanto Dr
Sun City, CA 92585
Graveside Service
Thursday
May 1, 2025
11:00 AM
Menifee Valley Memorial Park
26770 Murrieta Rd
Sun City, CA