Frank Cruz Castro
May 3, 1946 - March 26, 2024
Frank Cruz Castro, 77, of Denver, CO, passed away peacefully on March 26th, 2024, after a battle with cancer.
Frank was born on May 3, 1946, and was the 16th child of Guadalupe and Ysidoro Castro. Frank liked to tell the story that he was born at home and was delivered by Justina Ford, the first licensed African American doctor in Denver. After Frank graduated from Denver North High School in 1964, he went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts and Master’s Degree from the University of Colorado at Denver.
After graduating with his BA, Frank was the Director of Special Servies at the University of Colorado at Denver, which focused on giving Mexican American students an opportunity to attend college. Frank worked for many other non-profit agencies before he became a licensed insurance agent. His insurance career started at Allstate before he became an insurance broker.
Frank met Helen Chavez at the University and they married in 1973. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in December of 2023.
While we lost our most treasured husband & dad, there was so much more to him than just being a dad, although that was his greatest role. He was also an exceptional listener to those in need and has been a rock of support to many. He was a master at sarcastic humor and had such a quick wit. He was also a great coworker and colleague, uncle, brother, brother-in-law, stand-in paternal figure to the fatherless, a great friend and the list goes on and on.
Frank was predeceased in death by his parents and his 15 siblings. He is survived by his wife Helen, his 3 children, (Lorraine, Cajsa, and Francisco), 6 grandchildren (Bobby, Cruz, Soledad, Aiyana, Aniyah, and Kenzie) and 2 great grandchildren (Cayden and Lorelai).
Frank’s Celebration of Life
Friday, April 5th, 2024
1:00pm
Globeville Rec Center
4496 Grant St.
Denver, CO 80216
This Venue has street parking only and has drop off and handicap ramp on the southside of the building. We invite you all to share pictures or memories at the celebration. It was his wish that we laugh, reminisce, and smile together during this time.
Make a Donation in Honor of Frank
Birdseed Collective – Frank’s godson Anthony Garcia Sr. is the founder and executive director of this collective. This organization was designed to help the community with wellness programs and youth fine arts classes. You may donated to this collective here
The Bridge Community – Frank’s and Helen’s daughter Lorraine lived here for multiple years and this place/community gave Lorraine some experience in semi-independent living. Frank was grateful for the safe haven this place provided for Lorraine. You can donate here or send a check to: The Bridge Community, 3101 West Hillside Place Denver, CO 80219.
Jade Kids – Frank supported this organization as his grandchildren presently receive physical and emotional support and treatments. You may donate to this organization here:
Listen Foundation- This foundation was instrumental in supporting his hard of hearing daughter Lorraine to communicate well in a hearing world. You may donate to this organization here:
No Mo Violence – Frank’s granddaughters have learned about their cultural heritage and the importance of provided community service through the art of Folklorico dancing. You can donate with the options below.
