Jeanene Blau Castillo passed away on January 22, 2025, after a 4-year battle with cancer. She was 73 years old and leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and service.
Born on December 16, 1951, in Logan, Utah to Geniel and Gerald Blau, she was the oldest of 8 children. She grew up in Mesa, AZ and attended Westwood High School. After high school, Jeanene went to BYU and ASU for nursing. She worked as an ER nurse for 17 years and was a well-loved substitute teacher after she retired. Throughout her life she freely shared her nursing expertise, the fruits of her garden, a handmade ceramic gift, and calm faith and knowledge with any neighbor or friend who needed her.
Jeanene found joy being a mother to her 5 children and a few dozen other “acquired” children that became part of the family. She welcomed so many people into her home and made sure each felt loved and was well- fed.
She is survived by her husband Rod Castillo and their children Keith Castillo, Todd Castillo, Alicia Bear, Geneva Anderson, Elena Boushley and their spouses. She is survived by her siblings Bonita Quillen, Gary Blau, Jeff Blau, Duane Blau, David Blau, and Donalyn Blau and their spouses. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Steve Blau. Jeanene leaves a legacy of 23 grandchildren and countless lives she touched.
Services will be held Friday, Jan 31, 2025, with the viewing at 10am and funeral at 11am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 525 E. 2nd Ave Mesa, AZ 85204
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
A lovely angel has returned home to continue her work and prepare a place for her family. She will be missed so much by many. She fought a great fight to stay with you Rod and children but she passed her test. love Beverly
I was so sad to hear of the loss of Jeanene. I am lucky to have known her. She was an example to me of a wonderful mother and grandmother.
In the late 1990s or early 2000’s I had gone back to complete my degree at NAU. I had 4 children at home at the time and my husband was gone quite a bit driving trucks. Rod and Jeanne and moved to Flagstaff for a short period of time to complete Rods doctorate. I was serving at church as an activity day leader for the young girls 8-11. Jeanene had a daughter in our group. When she saw that I was rushing home from class, juggling my children and preparing to have fun with these girls, she just jumped in and helped me – without me asking – at every activity! She showed me her favorite recipes for quick and easy carmel popcorn made in a paper bag, and homemade Twix bars. We still make the popcorn every Christmas. I will never forget her warmth, generosity and kindness.