Darlene M. Castillo

Darlene M. (Thompson) Castillo met her heavenly family on July 31 as she passed peacefully surrounded by family. Darlene was born in 1933 to Lloyd and Johanna Schwartz. She was a resident of Bay City all her life and attended Central High School, before working in the laboratory at Bay Medical Center, and eventually retiring from PNC Bank. In her free time, she enjoyed tending to her large rose garden, sewing, crocheting, canning, restoring antique furniture, and playing cards, especially 500 rummy. Darlene enjoyed sharing these many talents with others. She was a fiercely independent and hardworking woman while also being a devoted and loving mother and nana. Darlene will be remembered and missed by many for her keen sense of humor and wit that brought a smile and laughter to everyone she met.
In heaven Darlene is reunited with her parents (Lloyd & Johanna Schwartz), brother (Peter Hennard III), and sister (Joanne Hartley Rocheleau). She is also reuniting with her past furry companions, including Bridget I, II, and III, as well as Buddy. Darlene is survived by her children James Thompson, Richard Thompson, Carmen (Terry) Lerash, and Todd Castillo, her grandchildren, Jaime Mason, Angie Morse, and Hannah Turk-Lerash, and her great grandchild Peyton. Also surviving is her sister Rose Ann Schmidt, many nieces and nephews, as well as her dear friend Shari.
The family also wants to extend their sincere appreciation for the excellent care teams at Bickford Assisted Living and Cardinal Hospice, especially Crystal, Judy, Carmen, Lisa, and Angie. At Darlene’s request, there will be no services, she has been cremated and will eternally rest at Floral Gardens Cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been taken care of through Gephardt Funeral Home. Her family asks for prayers during this difficult time. If you wish to express your sympathies, please consider donating to your local animal shelter.