Celebration of Life - In Loving Memory of Ursula Ida Frieda Castro (née Koebke)

Description

Ursula (Ulla) Ida Frieda Castro, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on June 22, 2025, at the age of 89. Born in Koblenz, Germany on April 7, 1936, Ulla lived a life marked by resilience, compassion, and deep connection to family and heritage.

Ulla lived most of her early years in Germany with her family, except for a period during World War II when she and her younger brother Norbert found refuge in Austria—an experience that shaped her strength and character. After returning to Germany and reuniting with their parents and sisters, Margot and Christa, she remained there until 1962, when she immigrated to the United States to live with relatives in California. Soon after, she began working as a medical assistant, where she met the love of her life, Bob Castro, at the doctor’s office where she was employed. They married shortly thereafter and shared a loving partnership for 56 years. One of their greatest joys was traveling—whether exploring new places around the world or visiting family and friends near and far, Bob and Ulla delighted in every adventure and treasured the experiences they shared together.

Together they raised two daughters, Tanja and Andrea, instilling in them a strong sense of family and culture, and pride in their German roots. Ulla dedicated herself not only to her immediate family but also to the broader German-American community. She was a passionate advocate for preserving German language and culture, teaching as a Kindergarten instructor at the local German Saturday school and volunteering extensively with organizations such as the German American Societies, House of Germany, and House of Austria.

Ulla’s spirit was vibrant and passionate. Her legacy of love and cultural pride lives on in her grandchildren — Annika, Luke, Karina, Caleb, and Stefan — as well as in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

She is survived by her beloved husband Bob Castro; daughters Tanja Sawicki (with husband Peter) and Andrea Andersen (with husband Erik); grandchildren Annika, Luke, Karina, Caleb, and Stefan.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Friday, August 8th, from 3:00pm to 5:00p.m. at the German American Societies, 1017 S. Mollison Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92020.