Enrique Ernesto "Henry" Castro

Enrique Ernesto "Henry" Castro, 40, of Conway, passed away Saturday, October 27, 2012, after a year-long fight with stomach cancer.
Born in Mexico City, he moved to Downey, California, with his mother, Alejandra, when he was a child. In high school he joined the Order of DeMolay, where he tirelessly fought to keep his chapter open as its president. It was through DeMolay that he met his wife, Wendy. She encouraged him to come with her to her childhood resident summer camp as a Camp Counselor and for 10 years they spent a week at Camp Wintaka where he was known by his camp name 'Slug.' Enrique and Wendy have been inseparable for 20 years; they were best friends. Together they attended Whittier College, where he majored in Comparative Politics and ultimately he received a M.S. in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University. He served on many Boards both in California and Arkansas, was a member of Golden Trowel Norwalk Lodge No. 273, and of LACMA.
Enrique dedicated his life to social justice and giving a voice to those unable to speak for themselves. As an extension of that dedication, he directed a gang intervention program in Long Beach, Calif.; directed a family resource center in Huntington Beach, Calif.; managed an economic literacy program in Pine Bluff, Ark.; and managed the licensing of programs who worked with the developmentally disabled in Arkansas. He has served as a precinct leader in California, and hosted a public-affairs, Spanish-language program on Wednesday nights "Aca Entre Nos" on KABF here in Little Rock until last October.
He became a beloved friend and mentor to many people as his generous spirit was infectious. Fiercely loyal, he did anything in his power for those he loved. He had a sarcastic wit tempered by the ability to become an instant confidante. He loved music and collected LP records, loved movies, and loved to dance. Enrique had a lust for life and loved to travel and experience new things, particularly new foods.
Enrique leaves behind a large extended family which includes his wife, mother, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, in-laws, and close friends.
Although cancer and chemotherapy were taking a devastating toll on his body, he never lost his good nature and powerful spirit. His courage in the face of insurmountable odds and weekly treatments was an inspiration to those who knew him. He will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.
Memorial services will be Tuesday, October 30, 2012, at 1 p.m. in the Roller-McNutt Funeral Home Chapel in Conway, 501-327-7727, with the Reverend Theresa Avera officiating.
To honor his memory, memorials may be made in his name to Camp Fire USA, Long Beach Area Council, 7070 Carson St., Long Beach, CA 90808; 562-421-2725.
Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com