Ended too soon
When asked for words to define Jose, his mother, Wanda, and his significant other, Chelsea said; funny, energetic, loving, outgoing, caring, and empathic. Jose’s energetic and outgoing personality drew people to him, and his empathetic nature made him a beloved partner, father, son, and friend.
As the oldest of the six children, his mother, Wanda, describes Jose as “the first love of my life.” Jose’s large extended family, including aunts, uncles, and cousins, were his rock. He adored his maternal grandmother, Ana, and step-grandfather, Roberto, who played a significant role in his life as grandparents and as his pastor.
He and his siblings, Irvin, Jacob, and Jeremy, Greshka, and Geisha were raised by their mother, Wanda, and stepfather Irvin, with love and support that shaped Jose’s compassionate nature. Jose openly talked about his 20-year substance use disorder to his siblings, determined to inspire them and others to avoid similar paths. He achieved sobriety for a significant period before relapsing in 2022.
Growing up, Jose was interested in music, playing the drums as a teenager, and later developing a talent for restoring motorcycles and cars. After high school, he honed his hands-on skills, teaching himself to play instruments, draw, and cut hair for friends and family.
Jose’s love for his children, Talycia, Julian, Josias, Elani, and Izarie, knew no bounds. He strived to be the best father and partner he could and dreamed of owning a home for his family. He cherished family gatherings, especially during holidays, and annual camping trips. His partner of nearly a decade, Chelsea Kiman, remembers his dedication to their family.
A people person, Jose’s impact on those he met was profound. He had a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life, never judging anyone based on their background. His love and respect for elders, a hallmark of his Latino culture, was remarkable. Tragically, Jose’s life was cut short on October 29, 2022, at the age of 36. His passing has left an unfillable void in the lives of those who loved him. Chelsea remembers his voice, hugs, and presence, while Wanda cherishes the long conversations and kisses they shared.
“Substance use disorder took away everything Jose was. It took his dreams and inspirations and his sense of worth and value to the world. The worst part for me was not being able to show him just how loved he was,” Chelsea stated. Wanda offered, “As a mother I’ve questioned myself many times, wondering what I did wrong. I felt I failed him by not being able to change the situation. Jose taught me how to love unconditionally.”
Having loved Jose for most of her life, through the happy times and the ugly, difficult ones, Chelsea questions her ability to continue to walk through life without him. Jose’s legacy lives on through his family and loved ones, who continue to advocate for substance use disorder awareness and support. Wanda returned to school to study psychology with a focus on addiction. She now uses her experiences to help others and promote harm reduction and recovery services. Chelsea now works at a substance abuse facility.
In his 36 years, Jose left an unforgettable mark on those who knew him. His memory continues to inspire hope and understanding for those affected by substance use disorder.
Jose’s mother, Wanda Castillo-Diaz, and his significant other, Chelsea Kiman, provided the information for this narrative.
September 1, 1986-October 29, 2022-Age 36
Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
