Rodolfo Lopez Castillo

Rodolfo Lopez Castillo entered eternal rest on February 10, 2026, at Gila Regional Medical Center in Silver City, New Mexico, surrounded by his family.

Affectionally known as “Rudy” or “Fito”, he was born on November 8, 1926 in Santa Rita, New Mexico, to Nicolas and Delfina Castillo. He married Dolores Perez on February 14th, 1969.      Together, they built a home filled with faith, laughter and endless love.

Rudy dedicated his life to his faith, family and community.  His commitment to these pillars of his life was truly remarkable.  He embodied a spirit of service that benefited so many.  It is clear he left a profound and positive impact on all those around him.  His legacy will undoubtedly endure through the lives he touched.  

Rudy served his country by joining the Navy.  He served with distinction in the United States Naval Construction Battalion, also known as the Seabees.  This esteemed unit is renowned for its critical role in infrastructure development and logistical support around the world.  After his honorable discharge from the military, he dedicated himself to becoming a valuable member of his community.  He was an active participant in community organizations, such as Our Lady of Fatima Church, Christian Family Movement, Knights of Columbus, VFW, Cobre Men’s Club, and as a musician lending his talents to La Rondalla.  He owned and operated Rudy’s Barber Shop and barbered for over 34 years.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping for relaxation and enjoyment with his family and friends.

Rudy is survived by his wife, Dolores;  daughters, Delilah Chavez from Silver City, NM, Audrey Lazos (Danny) from Las Cruces, NM, Monica Garcia (Fred) from Rio Rancho, NM; sons, Ruben Castillo from Floresville, TX, Ronald Castillo (Toni) from Santa Clara, NM,  John Perez (Ana) from Austin, TX and Stephen Perez (Patricia) from Needville, TX; brother Nahum Castillo (Clorinda) from Albuquerque, NM; sisters, Jemima Bauch (Richard) and Sephora Gallegos from Santa Clara, NM, and Lydia Garcia from Phoenix, AZ;  Twenty-one grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren and eleven great, great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Nicolas and Delfina Castillo; his son, Timothy Perez; granddaughter, Heather Herrera; his brothers, Robert, Sam, Max, Joshua, Bernie, Joe and Rev. Nicholas Castillo; babies Abenego and Emanuel Castillo; his sisters, Aurora Garza, Naomi Corbly, Deborah Perez, and babies Esther and Maria Martina Castillo.

The Recitation of the Holy Rosary for Mr. Castillo will begin at 10:30 am on Friday, 20, 2026 at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church with the Funeral Mass to be celebrated immediately thereafter.  The Rite of Committal and burial will take place at 1:00 pm at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full Military Honors accorded.  Officiating will be Father Martin Okonkwo.  Those having the honor of serving as Rudy’s casket bearers will be his grandsons Matthew Lerman, Timothy Garcia, Michael Garcia, Rudy Castillo, Joseph Castillo, Anthony Chavez, James Chavez & Rudy Perez.  Serving as honorary pallbearers will be all his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.  Military flag presentation will be given by grandson, Jacob Lazos.

His greatest joy was being a devoted husband, loving father, and wonderful grandfather.  He thoroughly enjoyed making family members laugh with his sense of humor, which will be immensely missed.  His legacy of kindness, strength, and love will live on in every heart he touched.

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