Ted Castaneda
Ted Castaneda, 91, of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025. Ted was born on April 27, 1934 to Filipa Perez and Cerilo “George” Castaneda. Ted was one of seven children, with four brothers and two sisters, all of whom have preceded him in death.
Ted proudly served in the United States Army from 1957-1959. He was a graduate of Colorado Springs High School and went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree from Northern Colorado University in 1962. His commitment to education continued as he obtained his Masters degree from Northern Arizona University in 1969.
Wrestling was a lifelong passion for Ted. He was a State Wrestling Champion in high school and a four-year varsity wrestler at Northern Colorado University, earning the title of Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Champion three times. Ted’s dedication to the sport continued as a coach, where he inspired countless young athletes, earning Wrestling Coach of the Year in 1988 and a Service Award for leadership and commitment to high school athletics.
Ted began his teaching career in 1961, sharing his love of language as a Spanish teacher. He earned Teacher of the year in 1966 at Prescott High School. He loved to be present with his students and wrestlers, even hosting student trips to Europe to share his passion for Spain and its culture. For Ted, his students and athletes were family, and he left a lasting impact on each of their lives. Reflecting his dedication, he once said, “It is my sincere belief that all young people regardless of their background deserve the best education possible”.
Ted’s faith and service shone through his many years as a devoted Knight of Columbus. He cherished his role as a devoted member, serving his parish and community with faith and compassion. Ted achieved the highest and most prestigious level, bestowing the title of “Sir Knight”.
Ted was blessed with one son, Tedward, who brought endless pride and happiness to Ted’s life. Tedward was born of Ted’s first marriage.
In 1978, Ted found love again when he married Carolyn, his devoted partner and the love of his life, with whom he shared over four decades of cherished memories. Through these unions, he lovingly welcomed his stepchildren into his heart and family and cherished them as his own. In his later years, he was blessed with the companionship of Dorothy, with whom he shared deep friendship, love and laughter.
He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Carolyn and his beloved son, Tedward, who he now joins in eternal rest. He is also reunited in Heaven with his brothers and sisters who have passed before him.
Ted will be fondly remembered by all who know him for his generosity, warmth, and devotion to family. He is survived by his daughter-in-law, who he loved dearly, Charlette; his step children, who he embraced as his own, Dorothy (George), Theresa (Pat), Flora “Susan” (Richard), Barry, Clay (Cynthia), Mark, and Darren; his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy, Chelsea (Keith), Vincent (Harlo), Madison, Tanner (Lisa), Carissa and 10 great-grandchildren. Ted leaves behind a legacy of devotion to family, students, athletes, and all whose lives he touched with his wisdom, kindness, and encouragement. He is the kind of soul that stays with you forever.
Please join us as we celebrate Ted’s life and legacy. A visitation will be held on Monday, November 24th, 2025, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, with a Rosary at 6:30pm. A memorial service will take place on Tuesday, November 25th, 2025, at St. Anne Roman Catholic Parish, followed by burial at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery