November 14, 1962 – May 7, 2026

Patty Jo Castillo, a vibrant 63-year-old from Houston, Texas, peacefully passed away at home on May 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Owatonna, Minnesota, to Marvin and June Keck, Patty’s journey began at Owatonna High School before she embarked on a successful career in Information Technology.

Patty possessed an extraordinary ability to illuminate any room with her infectious energy. Her adventurous spirit, sharp wit, and legendary baking skills made her a beloved figure. As a devoted wife to Raul L. Castillo, she shared 23 beautiful years of marriage, creating a foundation of love and support for their family.

To her children, Patty was more than just a mother; she was a guiding light, a pillar of strength, and a nurturing mentor. Her kindness and warmth made her daughters-in-law feel cherished and valued. Patty’s greatest pride lay in her children and grandchildren, and she found immense joy in crafting, traveling with Raul, and trying her luck at the casino. Her love for music was undeniable, particularly for Meat Loaf and Rod Stewart, especially when Rod donned his iconic pink pants.

Patty’s battle with cancer was a long and arduous one. Despite the challenges, she fought with remarkable resilience, driven by her unwavering commitment to her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Patty was preceded in death by her beloved son, William H. Helm, whom she cherished deeply and missed dearly, as well as by her parents, Marvin and June Keck. Patty’s memory will be cherished by her surviving husband, Raul; her children, Belinda Castillo, Raul Castillo (Magdalena), Tara Jo Smith (Preston), Karl M. Helm (Ann), and, her daughter-in-law, Carrie Hendrick Helm. Her siblings, Martin (Gale) Keck, Marlin (Lori) Keck, Laura (Jeff) Herning, and Craig (Cindy) Keck, and her grandchildren, Cooper, Ethan, Liam, John Leonardo, Alisha, Marvin John, Avery-Jo, Siara, and Manuel, also survive her.

Services will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 9:30 AM at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Nassau Bay. A funeral service will follow at 10:30 AM, followed by burial at 11:30 AM at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Dickinson, Texas. Crowder Funeral Home will be responsible for the services.

In honor of Patty’s love for flowers, the family requests donations of Easter Lily plants. These
plants were her favorite and something she dedicated herself to keeping alive.