Obituary of Stephen Charles Casillas

Stephen “Astro” Casillas born and raised in Superior, passed away Thursday September 7, 2023 - he was 70. He is preceded in death by his parents Joe and Bea, his brother Billy and his son Jose. He is survived by his daughters Jessica (Shawn) Bemiss of Tucson and Modesta (James) Delahunt of Gilbert. His grandsons Andres (Jeanette) Lewis and Larenz Jalen Lewis. His two great-grandsons Andres and Julian Lewis. His brother John (Billie) Casillas and many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Born May 16, 1953 to Joe and Bea Casillas in Superior, Astro spent his early years serving as an alter boy for St. Francis Church as well as growing up in the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. He worked helping his Father at the hardware shop and in the Superior mines. In 1973, he moved to Tucson and attended the University of Arizona. He graduated with a Bachelors degree in Hydrology and Geology. After graduating, he worked as Hydrologist for the City of Tucson and later in life as a part-time substitute. He was dedicated to teaching science to everyone he came in contact with.

He enjoyed sports and fishing, but his great passion was the stars. Often found working with model rocketry or studying astronomy; space and the universe fascinated him. Since his passing Modesta had a star named in his honor so he could remain forever in the sky. 

Services for Astro will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Superior, Arizona on Friday, September 29th. Rosary 9:30am, mass at 10am, then followed by a short grave side service at Fairview Cemetery. A celebration of his life will follow at St. Mary’s Center. Family and friends are invited to share this time with us.