Obituary of Gary Louis Castron

Gary Castron, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2024 at the age of 86. Born in 1937 in south-central Los Angeles, California, Gary was the beloved son of Jules Joseph Castron Senior and Harriet Pearl Hester. He was the youngest of six children.

At the age of 17, Gary answered his country's call and enlisted in the Army. He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant at Fort George Meade, where he worked with guided missiles used to protect Washington DC. He enjoyed boxing in the military and was undefeated during his years of service. Gary was very proud of his service and felt it helped shape him into the man he became.

In 1957, Gary welcomed his first born daughter Antonia Marie. During this time Gary also embarked on a successful career as an entrepreneur, co-founding Castron Maintenance with his brother Ronald before establishing his own venture, DC Building Maintenance. DC flourished, often employing family members and close friends.  Later Gary expanded his business, partnering with his son, Gary Castron Junior, to create DC Power Washing. Some of DC’s notable clients included 800 Kroger Supermarkets, U-Haul, Sinclair Paints, Golden Bird Restaurants, Dolphins of Hollywood, Baskin Robbins and even Tina Turner’s residence.

Family was the cornerstone of Gary's life. At age 20, he married Conchita Maria Moseley. Gary and Conchita shared a beautiful 67 year bond, lovingly raising three children- Simone, Jeanine, and Gary Jr.  Together, they found joy in dancing, playing bid whist and telling stories. They loved cruises and camping/RV trips with family and clubs, the Gulf Streamers and Casting in the Wind.

Gary's adventurous spirit knew no bounds. He became a horsemen in the re-created 10th Calvary culminating in riding in several Watts Parades and movie appearances. He found excitement in riding his beloved Harley Davidson and pursuing hobbies like photography, skiing, and martial arts achieving 1st Dan black belt in Tang Soo Do.

Gary's infectious enthusiasm for life shone through in his role as "Holiday Hog," where he delighted in hosting lively gatherings for friends and family, especially during cherished occasions like the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Gary's legacy of generosity and resilience extended beyond his professional and personal endeavors. He found fulfillment in sobriety for over 50 years, supporting others on their path to recovery.  

After Conchita’s passing, Gary moved into Varenita of Westlake, where he found a community he loved being a part of.  He found renewed purpose and became an official ambassador welcoming new residence, leading exercise classes, enthusiastically participating in weekly karaoke, field trips, and the dog walking group with his faithful dog, Runner.

Gary is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Conchita, and daughter, Simone. He is survived by his children, Antonia (Kenny Lake), Jeanine (Charles Kennedy), Gary Jr, (Tricia Castron), as well as grandchildren, Harley Lang (Elly Lang), Mikayla (Mafileo Tupou), Camille Castron, Charlie Kennedy and Shay Castron. And Great-grand children Trinity Lang and Meliame Tupou.  Gary also leaves behind sister in law, Mary Castron, many nieces and nephews, friends and Runner, his canine companion. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. May Gary rest in peace, surrounded by the love and admiration he so richly deserved.