Leo was born Leobardo Yepez Castillo in Guanajuato, México to Rafael Castillo and Plácida Yepez. Leo was 1 of 7 children, and lived a life dedicated to work and supporting his family. At just 13 years old, he moved to Mexicali where he worked until he was able to take a train to California. When he arrived, he worked from Chino to Hayward working in fields, packing houses, canneries, serving as a custodian, working at the Kings River country club, and many other trades. He always took pride in his work, porque "nunca le faltaba el trabajo," and he instilled these values of hard work and dedication into his own family. He met the love of his life, Maria "Christina" Lugo in Selma, California. Soon, they married and raised 2 sons, Antonio Lugo Castillo and Leo Lugo Castillo.

Leo is survived by his son Tony and his wife Georgia, his son Leo and his wife Lupe, his grandchildren Michael and his wife Janessa, Matthew, Marissa, and his 2 great-granddaughters, Elise and Camila Castillo. Leo loved his family and always expressed how blessed he was to have them in his life. Throughout his whole life, Leo remained true to providing for his family, helping the poor, and practicing his faith. He lived by these principles and maintained a close relationship with God until the very end.