Gerda (Weitzel) Castillo

Gerda (Weitzel) Castillo, born in Germany on January 27, 1938, peacefully passed away at Christus Spohn Hospital-Beeville on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at the age of 86. Gerda was the beloved daughter of Friedrich Wilhem and Maria Geborne Deppert Weitzel.          

After high school graduation, Gerda met and married the love of her life, Bernardino “Bernie” Castillo, on November 17, 1972, while stationed in Germany. In her own quiet yet impactful way, Gerda supported her husband’s military service by cooking meals for his comrades. Her culinary skills brought joy and comfort to many, leaving a lasting impression on all who tasted her dishes. In addition, she enjoyed the company of her cats, Fritzy (RIP) and Bonnie, along with traveling to visit family. 

Gerda was preceded in death by her parents, Friedrich and Maria Weitzel; her brother and two sisters; along with her children, Gerda Marie Miller, Cynthia Lee Keener, Rodger Erich Miller and Diana Lynn Pearson; her father-in-law, Andres Castillo, Sr.; and mother-in-law, Dora (Hernandez) Castillo.

Left behind to mourn Gerda include her loving husband of 52 years, Bernie Castillo of Beeville; a son, John Oliver Miller of Washington; two brothers-in-law, Andres (Yolanda) Castillo and Francisco “Frank” (Sylvia) Castillo, both of Beeville; a sister-in-law, Pauline Loredo of Cypress; seven grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will gather from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday, March 1, at Galloway & Sons Funeral Home to celebrate Gerda’s life.