Farewell, Jim Castro (1949-2011)

James Castro, 1949-2010

Even though we received news of the passing of James (Jim) Castro last fall, we are announcing it to our class just now. Here’s some information about him from the Burbank City Employee Association:

James Castro (Jim) joined the City of Burbank on October 4, 1967, as a Park & Recreation Aide. He was just 18 years old. Jim continued to work for the Park, Recreation and Community Service Department (PRCS) as a Work Trainee II until he went into the military on April 1, 1968. Jim returned to the City in April, 1973 and worked as a Groundsman in the Comprehensive Employment & Training Act Program for PRCS. A year later, Jim was hired permanently as a Skilled Worker in that same section. On July 1, 1979, Jim made a change and joined Burbank Water & Power (BWP) as a Lineman Helper.

James (Jim) Castro in a recent photo published by the Burbank City Employees Association.

In March, 1981, Jim switched over to the Electrical section of BWP as an Electrician Helper. He continued to work in this area and promoted to Utility Electrician, Electrician, and in June 2000, he promoted to the position of Test Technician. He had truly found his niche working as a Test Technician and remained in the position until his retirement in July of 2008. He enjoyed working with customers and received many kudos from satisfied Burbank customers. Jim seemed to be most happy when he was making his friends and coworkers smile and laugh. His own smile lit up a room and will be remembered by all!

Jim passed away on Tuesday, October 25, 2011. Jim leaves behind his wife, Suzann; daughters Jessica, Jasmine, and Jenny; mother Graciela; brothers Anthony and Michael; son-in-law Brandyn; and grandson Matthew.

He attended the 40th Class Reunion and I remember speaking to him at length. According to his cousin, Virginia Castro, who also graduated with our class of ’68, Jim died of a brain tumor.

We express our deepest sympathy to his family.