Service held for young couple killed in Hacienda Heights crash

HACIENDA HEIGHTS, Calif. (KABC) -- Friends and family of two teens who were killed in a violent crash in Hacienda Heights earlier this month held a final farewell ceremony Saturday for the young couple.

The celebration of life ceremony for George Steward and Sabrina Castillo was held at the Calvary Chapel in Montebello. Both were remembered for the love they had for life and for each other.

"He really, really loved her. It was just an unconditional love how much he loved her," said Eric Castillo of La Puente. "Seeing them together, they'd always smile, always happy. I've never seen them argue."

The two 18-year-olds died on Oct. 18 when the driver of a speeding Lexus lost control while exiting the 60 Freeway at 7th Avenue and sheared off the top of their pickup truck, killing both teenagers inside, according to the California Highway Patrol.

"They were taken away tragically, but yet we get to come here and remember all the good and happy times they had together and we had with them as a family," said Brandon Castillo, Sabrina's uncle.

George and Sabrina graduated from Los Altos High School last spring. Sabrina was studying business at Citrus College. George was attending Mt. San Antonio College where he was on the football team.

Friends from high school and fellow football players who played with George in college came to pay their respects.

"He's one of the brothers. We really look at him as one of our own," said Mosese Manu.

"We were his family as well, so we wanted to support his family and let them know that the Mt. SAC football team and of all the athletics know that we're here to support. Whatever they need, we'll be there," said Norman Moi Moi.

"It's good knowing that he's actually touched a lot of lives throughout football and throughout his own personal life," said Eric Castillo.

The family asked that everyone wear jerseys and casual clothing in honor of the young couple who were avid sports fans, and like George and Sabrina, asked them to keep smiling, focusing on the good memories.

"What comforts me is knowing that they're together because that's how much in love they were, and to know one doesn't have to mourn for the other's loss; they can both look down on us together," said Brandon Castillo.