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Beloved Father Manuel Covid Passing Family Fund

Hello everyone,

It is with a heavy heart that we received news today of Manuel Castelan's passing. 

Manny was a genuine, wonderful person.

Most importantly, he was a beloved father and devoted husband.

He leaves behind his three children: Manuel Castelan Vela (aged 14), Luis Santiago Castelan (11), and Rosa Cecilia Castelan (7); and his wife Cecilia. 

To me, Manny was more than a coworker - he was a friend. We first met years ago at Estancia as coworkers, remained in touch, and ultimately started work again at Valentina. I was always so impressed by his work ethic, something he always attributed to wanting to take care of his family. 

Towards the end of November, Manny began feeling unwell. He was hospitalized in early December with Covid-19 and battled for the next two months before succumbing this morning. 

We will all miss Manny, but no one will miss him more than his family. I have been in contact with his wife, Cecilia, throughout his illness and have offered to help her with creating this GoFundMe for the expenses incurred from Manny's hospital stay, as well as help the family through this incredibly difficult time. 

She and I are so humbled and appreciative of any help you are able to offer. 

Stay safe, and take care of each other. 

***EDIT: A couple of legal/required notes:

I am a friend of Manuel Castelan, but the sole recipient of the funds is Cecilia, his wife, and his children. 
From my conversations with her, she will be using the funds to sustain the family as they navigate the loss of Manny's income. She has mentioned rent as one of these expenses. 
I have been authorized by Cecilia to withdraw the funds of the fundraiser and to deliver them to her. My goal is to deliver the amount raised thus far at the end of March, in person, to her and her family in Tijuana. 

I want to be as transparent as possible and am more than willing to answer any questions or assuage any donors concerns. It is important to me that anyone that has donated to help the wonderful family of this wonderful man is confident that their kindness is reaching the intended recipients. ***

Ricardo
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Donations 

  • Randee Stratton
    • $25 
    • 3 yrs
  • Anonymous
    • $1,400 
    • 3 yrs
  • Christine Star
    • $50 
    • 3 yrs
  • Haley O'Bryan
    • $59 
    • 3 yrs
  • Sarah Casteel
    • $50 
    • 3 yrs
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Organizer

Ricardo Zarate
Organizer
Encinitas, CA

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