Mario was born in El Salvador, Central America on September 14, 1924, the son of the late Manuel Castro and Olinda Campos. He met and married his beloved wife and soulmate, Emma, in 1946, and recently celebrated their 70th anniversary. One of their passions was traveling the world, visiting over 14 countries, and becoming immersed in each of the cultures.
Mario arrived in the United States and was immediately inducted into the Army, where he learned the English language. Upon his honorable discharge, he embarked on a series of jobs that eventually led him to a career in real estate, opening his own office in 1964. Overcoming a limited education,
Mario epitomized the "American Dream", becoming a very successful business man through his real estate company, "Castro Realty".
In 1972, angered and frustrated with the common banking practice known as 'redlining', Mario founded Pan American Federal Savings and Loan, the first S&L to primarily serve the Hispanic community. Working first through the State Legislature and then taking the cause to Washington DC, he was instrumental in outlawing the discriminatory barrier to funding minority communities. His victorious challenge to the banking establishment provided access to funds that sparked growth and opportunity for the residents and businesses of the Mission District, thus creating the genesis of one of San Francisco's most vibrant communities. As the savings and loan expanded to six branches Mario built and moved the headquarters from San Francisco to 1300 S. El Camino Real, San Mateo and at one point was the largest minority held S&L in the United States.
But his greatest accomplishment, was his family. Although as a man of Latino heritage, he longed for a son, he came to realize the blessings of his four daughters. No one was prouder than Mario, when going out on the town or traveling through countries showcasing his beautiful wife and daughters.
Mario, leaves behind his wife, Emma, daughters and sons-in-law, Nancy Chaudoir (Alex), Sandi Castro and Renee Ortiz (Jesse). Nine grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. His sisters Olinda Montalvo, Tula Wilkins and
Yolanda Gonzalez and numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his mother and father, daughter Linda Castro, brothers Atilio Castro, Roberto Castro and Mauricio Castro and sister Virginia Bardales.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at 10:00 am. Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church,
1721 Hillside Dr., Burlingame.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
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Keep the discussion civilized. Absolutely NO personal attacks or insults directed toward writers, nor others who make comments.
Keep it clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
Don't threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Anyone violating these rules will be issued a warning. After the warning, comment privileges can be revoked.