Raul Hector Castro, Arizona's first and only Hispanic governor and an American ambassador, died on Friday at the age of 98.

According to a family spokesman, Castro died in his sleep in San Diego while in hospice care, reports The Associated Press.

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey released a statement praising the state's 14th governor.

"He was an honorable public servant, a history-maker, a beloved family man and a strong friend and fighter for Arizona," Ducey's statement said, reports AZ Central. "Whether as a county attorney, a superior court judge, a United States ambassador or -- as we will best remember him -- our 14th governor, his life and legacy of service is forever ingrained in our history. The thoughts and prayers of all Arizonans are with Governor Castro's family and loved ones during this difficult time."

Born in 1916, Castro grew up in poverty and spent the first 10 years of his life living in Mexico. Eventually, his family migrated to America, but his father died when he was 12 years old. As a result, his mother became a midwife and would barter her services in exchange for food.

After graduating college with a teaching degree, Castro could not land a job as a teacher due to discrimination, so he began living as a nomad while boxing for money at carnivals or working to pick sugar beets in fields.

Later, he enrolled in law school and began practicing law in Tucson. He decided to enter into politics in order to fight against discrimination and for equality for Latinos.

In 1954, Castro was elected Pima County attorney and was subsequently elected a Superior Court judge. He spent time as a U.S. ambassador in multiple countries Latin America before returning to Arizona and running for governor.

Castro served as governor for two and a half years before resigning when President Jimmy Carter appointed him as a diplomat to Argentina.

Castro will be remembered as self-made man who overcame poverty and discrimination to live the American dream.