Lourdes Castro De Guzman

Our devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend to all those whose lives she touched, left us peacefully on September 10 She was 91 years young.
Born and raised in the Philippines, she lived in Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija.
Nanay has 2 siblings Josefino and Leonardo Castro and her proud parents Francisca and Sabas Castro.
Nanay Lourdes and Juan De Guzman, moved to Long Island, NY in 1985. The couple eventually relocated to Los Angeles, CA in 1992. Together they had 11 children. Perry, Fe, Ramon, Noreida, Cynthia Manuela, Lorenzo, Cecliia, Armel, Susan and Sonia.
She was a loving grandmother to Myra, Michelle, Glenda, Joanne, Kathy, Carol, Jean, Razel, Raymond, JC, Anthony, Melani, Bethany Grace, Vergel, Joshua, John Mark, Jovelyn, Darryl, Jhon-Jhon, Kenneth, Camille, Gabriel & John Kristopher. She was even a great grandmother and great great grandmother.
She spent majority of her life raising children, grandchildren and working two jobs. Although it may sound like a lot, she enjoyed every minute. Her jolly attitude and infectious smile were loved by many. When living in New York, she worked at Pilgrim State Psychiatric Center where she was known as "mama"; and a part time assembly employee at Whitman (Estee Lauder). These jobs brought her much joy, but not as much joy as taking care of her grandchildren, cooking and tending to her garden. All those that knew her, would describe her best characteristics as loving, compassionate and understanding.

Nanay Lourdes was an amazing cook with an impeccable palate. Her passion for cooking and her ability to express love through her food was evident by the meals she would cook daily to feed her family's stomach and soul. There was never a hungry person in her home. Her signature dish was "Dinuguan" and was this was requested by many. Many have tried to duplicate, but none can never compare.

Her other hobbies include watching movies by her favorite comedian, Dolphy, and sewing pillowcases. She also had an eye for fashion and always looked stunning.

Most of all, she loved her family and instilled in her children strong values. These same life lessons that we're taught, were passed down to the next generation. She will be missed dearly, and fond memories will remain in our hearts forever.

A celebration of Lourdes' life will be held at Forest Lawn, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, California on September 30, 2020 at 2:30pm PST. If you are planning on attending, please note that you will need to follow everyday preventative actions to protect yourself and others from the transmission of Covid-19. Physical distancing rules must be followed. A Facebook Live feed will be present on that day, if you are unable to attend.