Jack Castleman, 77, of Rochester, passed away on Friday, July 15, 2022 at his residence.
On August 15, 1944, Loyd Wesley “Jack” Castleman was born in Rochester. He was the treasured son of Clyde and Clarice Good Castleman. Growing up he shared his childhood with an older sister, Bonnie. As a youngster he grew up on the farm where he learned a strong work ethic and attended Burton School. Jack graduated from Rochester High School with the Class of 1962.
Answering the call of patriotism, Jack served with the United States Army during the Vietnam War. During his service stint he was awarded 2 Purple Hearts and the Medal of Honor. He was honorably discharged in 1968.
On March 22, 1968, Jack and Anita Ann Yeazel were married by the Justice of the Peace Thelma Carr.. They have shared 54 years of life’s adventures. Together they raised 4 wonderful children. The family tree continued to grow with the additions of two more generations. Jack continued to farm with his Dad for many years. He also served as a truck droving professional hauling cargo from coast-to-coast. His favorite destinations were Oregon, Maine and Connecticut. More recently Jack drove for Kevin Smith of Smith Farms, hauling grain to the market.
With a love for the outdoors, Jack could be seen on his John Deere mower manicuring his yard with meticulous efforts. On a hot summer day he enjoyed an ice-cold beer to chill after a job well done. He also annually helped Anita plant a small garden, harvesting green beans and tomatoes for the family's winter use. With great intrigue they all watched the sunflowers grow and Grandpa Jack took pictures of the "Grands,' standing beside them.
An avid John Deere man, Jack had restored two tractors. He was especially proud of his antique John Deere 520 and the JD 3020, both in pristine condition.
Left to cherish Jack's memory are his wife, Anita; two sons: Allen Castleman of Indianapolis, Kurt Castleman of Argos; daughter Carmen Castleman and companion Tim of Fishers; grandchildren: Amber Calvert, Aaron Vanspeybroeck, Garrett Loyd Sommers, Cearra Castleman, Brody Alber and companion TaylorLong, Madison Henninger and fiance' Issac Smith, Riley Alber, Francis Alber Oberg and husband Max, Madison Henninger, Seth Castleman, Emily Castleman, Brayden Castleman; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Also surviving is Jack's special neighbor Jerry Prokopec and wife Marcia.
Preceding Jack in death are his parents, daughter Angela Castleman-Alber on May 31, 2022 and sister Bonnie Overmyer on December 8, 2021.
A celebration of the life of Loyd Wesley "Jack" Castleman will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, July 22, 2022, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester.
Friends may visit with the family from noon until the hour of the service. Military honors will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the United States Army Honors Team.
Memorials may be made to The Fulton County DAV Van Fund, 815 Main Street, Rochester, Indiana 46975 Attn: Ric Foust VSO.
