Clarence "Clancy" L. Castle, Jr, 89, of Metamora, passed away at 5:57am Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at Grand View Alzheimer's Special Care Center in Peoria.

He was born November 18, 1933 in Peoria to the late Virginia E. (Ufford) and Clarence L. Castle, Sr. He married Nancy L. Leurig on December 5, 1954 in Peoria; she preceded him in death on June 12, 2023. Also preceding him in death were: Sharon Adams, his sister; Betty Castle his sister-in-law; and Kasondra Castle, his daughter-in-law.

Surviving are their children, Julie (Tim) Jacobs of Germantown Hills, Laurie (Steven) Larsh of Washington, Brian Castle of Washington, David Castle of Metamora, Kelly Castle of Phoenix, AZ and Christopher Castle, of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Jesse, Sarah, Ben, and Will; siblings, Roger Castle and Susan (Clint) Wilson; and brother in law, Wayne Adams.

Clancy graduated from Woodruff High School and entered the National Guard following graduation. He later enlisted in the US Army, serving in Korea and attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.  Following his honorable discharge, he went to work for Caterpillar. Clancy was a well-respected senior design engineer during his time at Cat, with a highlight being his work as lead designer for the oval track D6 and D7 models; he retired in 1995 after 40 years of service.

He loved using his natural talents to build, remodel, and tinker, whether with cars and tractors or his home. Clancy was a homebody seldom traveling unless he was required to for his job. He enjoyed his home and plenty of outdoor space offered by his property. Throughout his life, he maintained a daily exercise routine which rewarded him with robust strength up through his final years on earth. His weakness was stray animals needing a home, and he never hesitated to take a pet in.

Clancy prioritized his love and service to the Lord. For twenty plus years, he served as treasurer in the churches he was a member of and following his retirement from Cat, he maintained part-time employment as bookkeeper for the Peoria Christian Center for several years. He also helped with the preparation and printing of 1000 Bibles for distribution among the Yalunka tribe of Africa.

He was a loving husband, father, and Pampa whose quiet strength and wisdom will be missed.

A funeral service with military honors will be held at 2:00pm Saturday, July 8, 2023 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Washington Christian Church in support of several mission outreach programs.