Magdalena Castilleja
Castilleja, Magdalena, age 79, was born into eternal life on February 3, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Jose L Castilleja, loving father to the late Gabriel “Papo”, Juan “Prieto” (Julia), and Jose “Meme” (Jeanette) Castilleja and Magdalena Sofia (Lucio) Marin. Doting grandmother to Griselda “Lala”, Anthony and Sophia Castilleja, Hannah and Madeline Marin and a great grandmother to Julianna Castilleja.
Magdalena was lovingly known to many as “Magda” originally from Monterrey, Mexico she moved into Chicago’s Little Village Neighborhood in the early 1970’s with her husband Jose. She supported her husband's business endeavors including a hardware store in the heart of Little Village called “El Tornillo '' which they owned and operated for over 20 years. She was a devoted wife and the many contributions her husband “Maestro Pepe” made in the community could not have been possible without Magda’s support. She added a feminine touch to everything, from the ice cream shop at the front of the store to the beautiful flowers sold during the spring. She made friends easily, she supported her community by attending and hosting events. She loved to throw themed parties and would coordinate attire and sold tickets to make it spectacular. Social gatherings where Magda was in attendance were sure to be a great time as her personality dazzled and lit the space she entered while her laugh radiated throughout.
From an early age she encountered big responsibilities which developed strength, independence and empathy. She became a caregiver to her mom, a mentor to her nieces and nephews (who saw her as a second mom after their parents passed away) and took pride in becoming their support. Her nurturing manner extended to not only her own children but also their friends who growing up remember visiting El Tornillo where they were greeted with open arms.
She was a woman of strong faith, values, and convictions, this made her protective of all. She was fair and outspoken and never hesitated to step in if she saw injustice or saw someone being taken advantage of. She was honest and loyal and believed in doing the right thing.
Magda had a unique style which was elegant and classy. Regardless if she was working at a hardware store, she wanted to look her best for all. She extended her joy of style to daughter's upbringing by dressing her up with an array of ruffles and lovely dresses. She enjoyed making things pretty and her attention to detail was evident in her environment. When you entered her home, you could not help but to smell the sweet scent of perfumes and candles and her dresser displayed a variety of quality cosmetics.
Her home was neat and tidy and full of hospitality, when she knew out of town family was visiting, she made sure to welcome them with a home cooked meal such of carne asada, tamales, lentils, assortment of salsas, arroz with comino and bottomless pot of coffee. Every visit to Magda’s home was a social occasion and often turned into a party that included music, singing and of course joke telling. She was an amazing storyteller, who kept a captive audience with her ability to narrate memories. Her nieces and nephews fondly recall how she would tell stories of the past to keep memories alive of those who had previously perished. Although Magda’s passing brings an end to the Cruz Flores lineage, the legacy of their love and joy will continue.
Later during her retirement years, she enjoyed reconnecting with friends, spending time with her grandchildren and celebrating milestones with food, laughter and music. As her health declined her positive outlook and elegance remained intact.
Magdalena Castilleja “Magda” will be remembered for her sparkling personality, caring heart and loving smile, but most importantly for teaching all of us what dedication and loyalty look like in practice. Her legacy will live on in her children who will remember her teachings and strive to continue her example of generosity and joy to all.
Funeral Monday 8:45 am from Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home to St. Agnes of Bohemia Church for Mass at 10:00 am.
Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
Visitation Sunday from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm.