Samantha (Sami) Marie Castro

Samantha (Sami) Marie Castro, 29, passed away peacefully from complications of Ataxia-Telangiectasia on October 19, at home surrounded by family.

Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Sami made friends everywhere she went. She built a community in Eagan, MN, and when the family moved to Florida, she attended Boca Christian, where her teachers, classmates and loving aide, Mirtha, all contributed to her continued faith and strong relationship with God. 

Despite the challenges her disease created, Sami made everything appear easy and always leaned into the positives of what A-T brought to her, developing a love for her countless caregivers, doctors and especially her service dog, Fanny. It was this strength and attitude that left everyone who came in contact with Sami in awe.

Her sister, Ali, her brother-in-law, Kevin, and her mom, Linnea, were her best friends. She also used her computer to maintain special connection with loved ones, who were the lucky recipients of lengthy birthday texts, homemade cards and surprise gifts at their doorstep. 

When spending time with Sami, you’d be in store for a rigorous workout on the Wii while she encouraged you in her signature high-pitched voice, and your reward was to relax and watch the latest Disney or Hallmark movie. Wheel of Fortune, American Idol, or Dancing with the Stars were also favorites.

After a long day, she would long for mom’s cooking, or a night out where a filet mignon with blue cheese crumbles and a shirley temple would hit the spot. Sometimes, special mornings required chocolate chip pancakes.

Sami left everybody feeling better about life and knowing her was one of life’s great privileges. Her pure soul, outlook on life and radiating smile has a unique impact that is endlessly inspirational. 

Sami is preceded in death by her Grandpa Joseph, Nonny, Grandpa Bob, Uncle Eric, Aunt Joan, and her dog, Fanny.

Sami is survived by her parents Linnea & John, sister Ali (Kevin) and her soon-to-be niece, as well as her siblings: Joe (Kelly), Lisa (Ryan), Brian (Chandra), Kristine (Barry), and nieces and nephews: Tasha (John), Jordan (Rachel), Lucia, John, Caden, Isabela, Cora, London, Brynn and Wild.

She is also survived by her Grandma JoAnn, and amazing Aunts & Uncles: Bonnie (Greg), Britta (Cary), Eivind (Rachael), Tom (Kay), Joe (Marilyn), her loving cousins, and best family friends: the Linders, McPeeks and Trevisols.

A Celebration of Sami's life will be held on Thursday, November 6th at 11am with an hour visitation prior at Eagle Brook Church (14960 Florence Trail, Apple Valley MN 55124). Reception/lunch to follow from 12-4 at the Radisson Blu at the Mall of America.

Service attire: standard funeral attire is appropriate. In place of all black, color is welcome as a tribute to Sami’s joyful spirit.

All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the A-T Children’s Project (atcp.org) or to Gillette Children’s Hospital (https://gillettechildrens.donordrive.com/GCGD/donate)