CARMEN CASTELL's Obituary
Carmen Castell passed away in her Coral Gables home at the age of 86 on Jun 6, 2022. Born in the Hacienda San Lorenzo and registered in Tlaxcala, Mexico. She married Paul B. Hickman in Guadalajara, Mexico and was later widowed. Subsequently briefly married James C. Gibbs in Coral Gables. After graduating from school, she worked in various fields and while persuing her education obtained certifications that included import/export. Her first work experience was as a successful manager of a lighting supply wholesaler for various large companies in Mexico city. She later received certifications in English and secretarial skills useful in the customer service field of Banco de Comercio in Mexico City. Carmen later headed to the prestigeous Hotel Reforma in Mexico City where she worked for many years. In the late 1960's, she successfully owned her restaurant, "La Brasserie", in Mexico City focussing on traditional Mexican cuisine. In Miami, during the late 70's and 80's, she successfully entered the fashion industry opening Castell & Sons. She simultaneously became a clothing designer, an import wholesaler and Mexican import gift shop owner in Coral Gables. Carmen was knowledgeable in the field of construction and green conservation. She became a world traveller visiting Japan and many countries throughout Europe, Canada, Central America and the Caribbean. Carmen was extremely proud of her Mexican heritage and as such travelled extensively throughout Mexico and was very knowledgeable in its country's farming, culture, gastronomy and history. Her hobbies included gardening, painting, music and swimming, and a distinct love for pets. In the latter part of her childhood, she became an expert in crocheting, knitting and sewing.
Carmen is suvived by her daughter Paula D. Hickman, son Javier O. Hickman, his wife Chaluie B. Hickman, two grandsons, Mark Paul Hickman and Kevin James Hickman.Viewing will be held at Van Orsdel 4600 SW 8 St, Coral Gables, FL 33134 between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Mass will be held at The Little Flower Catholic Church on 2711 Indian Mound Trail, Coral Gables, FL 33134 at 2 p.m. on June 13th, 2022.
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