In Loving Memory of Minerva “Blackie” Castel

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of Minerva “Blackie” Castel, who was born on July 22, 1935, in East Chicago, Indiana, and passed away peacefully at her home in East Chicago, Indiana, on November 13, 2026.

Whether you knew her as Minerva, Yolanda or Blackie, she was a remarkable woman whose warmth, laughter, and unwavering love touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She brought joy wherever she went and was truly the life of every gathering, always greeting family and friends with a beautiful smile.

She loved spending time on the golf course, playing pool, reading books, and enjoying card and board games with her family and friends. She was also a devoted Chicago sports fan who faithfully cheered on the Bulls, Bears, Cubs, and Blackhawks through every season. Whether celebrating a victory or sharing stories around the table, she created countless memories that her loved ones will cherish forever.

Minerva was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Florencio and Clara “Lelo and Lela” Soto; her sisters, Naomi (Chuck) Hastings, Frances (Lupe) Mendoza, Sylvia Montez, and Judy Soto; and her brothers, Roland (Annie) Soto and Beans (Rose) Soto.

Left to cherish her memory is the love of her life and devoted partner of 70 years, Paul J. Castel. Together they built a beautiful legacy that spans five generations.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Cynthia Castel, Corina Castel Ramos, Sharon Castel, Paula Castel, and Paul (Kilah) Castel, Jr.

Her grandchildren, who brought her great pride and joy, include Jay (Marcia) Flores, Linda (Stevan) Todorcevic, Tommy Flores, Chayne Bauer, Eli Ramos, Jr., Isaiah Ramos, Alejandro “Hondo” Solis, Paul Solis, Anthony “Tiger” Castel, and Jesenia “Nia” Cosme.

She was also blessed with ten great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren, each of whom carried a special place in her heart.

Minerva is further survived by her sister, Anna (Eloy) Guerrero of Tampa, Florida, and her brother, Gilbert (Gloria) Soto of Hobart, Indiana. She shared a special bond with her devoted niece and nephews, Ruth (Leonard) Hastings, Chuck (Jenny) Hastings, and Jim (Isabel) Hastings, along with many other cherished nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Minerva’s greatest joy was her family. Her love, strength, and sense of humor created a foundation that will continue to guide generations to come.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind. Her laughter, loving spirit, and endless devotion to family will remain with us always.

Forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

Services for Minerva will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026, at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, 7535 Taft Street, Merrillville, IN 46410, with visitation from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A short funeral service will begin at 6:00 PM, as well. After services, cremation will be performed.