Rafael Del Castillo

October 17, 1933 - July 23, 2020

Rafael DelCastillo 86, of Brandon, Florida passed away July 23, 2020 from Acute Respiratory failure (Covid-19) Pneumonia. He was born in Tampa, Florida on October 17, 1933. He was a devoted husband for 42 years to his wife Jonni Carole DelCastillo, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his children; Victoria D. Karr, Richard DelCastillo, Kevin DelCastillo, Step-daughter Vicki Mazza and step-son Greg Fischer, 6 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, brothers Eladio and Robert DelCastillo, sister Ofelia Wright, half brother Bill DelCastillo and half sisters Anna Diggs and Louisa DelCastillo. He is preceded in death by his father, Rafael DelCastillo and mother Fidelia Fernandez- DelCastillo. He served as a navigator in the Air Force and was honorably discharged as a 1st Lieutenant. He then joined the Tampa Fire Dept. where he served until he retired 24 years later. From there he went to work as a manager at the USF post office when he retired in 2000. Family came first to him and he always made time to visit them and make sure everyone was okay. He always tried to help anyone in need. Even during his last days living in memory care, he was always trying to take care of the residents in need. He loved fixing things, if he wasn’t sure how he would not stop until he figured it out. If there was music playing he was dancing. He would dance with every lady in the room that would dance with him. He loved crossword puzzles and always carried one around with him everywhere he went. He loved reading and just learning. He loved traveling with his cousins Mauvie Ayala & Daniel McGee and Kathy & Dale Lake. But his favorite thing was when they were at their time share at Lido Beach with family and friends playing dominos, cards or just catching up. He loved living life to the fullest and loved every minute, he is missed more than words can say. There will be a memorial service September 23, 2020 at 2 pm at Saint John the Divine Episcopal Church in Sun City Center. Mask are mandatory and social distancing will be required. There will be no refreshments served. A burial of Rafael and Carole will follow on church grounds with the honor guard. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. John the Divine Episcopal building fund. . . . . .