"I served in the Army with Raul in Germany, what a great time! Raul was always smiling and full of life. I don't think anything got him down. He was a terrific soldier and even better friend. Prayers to his family and friends. RIH Raul."
Raul Villanueva Castro aka "Uli", passed away on May 24, 2025, in the Bay Area. Born on March 14, 1967, in Manila, Philippines, Raul was raised in Milpitas, CA and later settled in Los Banos, CA where he built a beautiful life with his wife Theresa, their daughters Sophia and Carissa, and son Maximo.
After graduating from Milpitas High School (c/o '85), he enlisted in the Army and honorably served the US while stationed in Germany. He returned home to pursue a college education, then accepted a job at Hello Direct in San Jose where he met the love of his life Theresa. He also worked at New United Motors and Tesla where he was a friend and mentor to many.
Raul's hobbies and interests included fishing, roosters, football, raising his dogs, and above all, spending time with his family and friends. Those who know him best will remember him for his requests for pizza just minutes after consuming a full meal, many phone calls, choice language, love of "back chops" from his nephews, infectious energy, generosity, fierce protectiveness for those he loved, and the immense pride he felt for his children.
He is preceded in death by Fe Villanueva Castro, Maxima Mamaril Castro, and Librada Dominguez Jimenez.
In addition to his wife and children, Uli is survived by parents Romeo and Alicia Castro, brother Theodore (Maryann), sister Ronalyn, honorary sister Firl, nephews Christian, TJ, Zach, Andrew and Nick, niece Andrea, great-niece Aubri, and many extended family members and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation is at Whitehurst Funeral Chapel on June 19 from 4pm-7pm. A funeral mass will be held at St Joseph's Church in Los Banos on June 20 at 10 am. Raul will be laid to rest at San Joaquin National Cemetery.
"I served in the Army with Raul in Germany, what a great time! Raul was always smiling and full of life. I don't think anything got him down. He was a terrific soldier and even better friend. Prayers to his family and friends. RIH Raul."
"Rest well my Milpitas homie. I'm happy that we had Facebook to get us all reunited. I enjoyed watching your life on social media and seeing your smile when you talked about your family. My heartfelt condolences to your family. ???"