Kenneth Lee CASTRO

1946 - 2018

CASTRO, Kenneth Lee On January 3, 2018 we unexpectedly lost a kind and loving man, Kenneth Lee Castro. Ken was surrounded by loved ones and received the most kind and compassionate care during his short stay at UCSF. Ken was born in Stockton on November 3, 1946, but grew up in Sebastopol. Early on he learned the art, skill and trade of sign making and wood carving from his mentor and role model his father Henry. Ken proudly served his country as a naval radioman on the nuclear submarine SSBN 633 USS Casimir Pulaski during the Vietnam War. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy, Ken worked at OCLI as a coater for 31 years. Before, during and after his employment at OCLI Ken owned his own sign painting and wood carving business for 45 years where he received numerous awards for his signs and wood carvings. His love of art and photography was an integral part of his character throughout his entire life. He would paint, draw, do calligraphy and took many photos, some for his own personal pleasure, but many for others. He would generously give his photos to people, never asking for money for developing and printing costs. He was selfless in that way and a very generous man. Ken's ability to write beautifully was amazing, he was incredibly talented. While working at OCLI he met the love of his life, Carolyn Bernard. He was to spend the next 33 years with her and his love for her never wavered. At that time he became a step-dad to five additional kids, and as he would often say, "Happiness is a big family." He hung in there showing his love and support for both his love and her children throughout their young lives and even into adulthood. When Ken was not working two jobs he would spend his time as an avid kite flyer and a remote control sailboat skipper. Ken loved flowers and he spent many hours gardening. He grew the most incredible miniature roses that he often brought in bouquets to his loved ones and friends. He was a muralist and at one point he created murals for Sheppard Elementary School. After retiring he collected art and antiques that were special to him. He spent many more hours collecting and setting up miniature trains and often spent time down at Whistlestop Antiques where he enjoyed his time. Ken also spent many hours going places and doing things with his grandchild Danielle. Later in life he found great joy in helping his love with his great-grandchildren Dakota, Bella and Avery. Ken is survived by his long, loving partner Carolyn Bernard, his children, David (Tammy), Heather, Ted (Jeni), Julie, Billy (Breezie), Dann, and Maria (Morgan). He is survived by his grandchildren Danielle, Kelsey, Christopher, Damien, Aiden, Lucy, Jake, Justin, Alyssa, Billie, Serina, Collin and his great-grandchildren Emery, Dakota, Bella and Avery. Ken is also survived by siblings, Bobby (Sharon), Wenonah, Mary (Jack), Leonard (Lynzie), and Ronnie (Constance); three nieces, Colleen, Deborah, and Tina; and three nephews, Jimmy, Jonathan, and Jared, as well as many great-nieces and nephews. Ken was preceded in death by his father Henry, his mother Marcella, and his sister and best friend Amelia. Ken was loved by all that knew him. He always said, "If I die tomorrow, I have had a great life and enjoyed every minute of it." Ken was a wonderful person who cared about everyone and always wanted to help out in any way he could. Ken will be dearly missed. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at Daniels Chapel of the Roses, 1225 Sonoma Ave., Santa Rosa. Visitation will be held there from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 19th.