John B. Castleman, Ii

Major (Retired) John Blair Castleman II passed away on October 2, 2020, at the age of 56. He was predeceased by his parents, John B., and Marie Castleman; one sister, Faun Castleman. John leaves to cherish his memory, his son, John B. Castleman III, special niece Ramona Wheeler, special cousin Darrell “Doobie” Warden; nephews, a host of cousins, family members, and friends who loved him, and spent time with him throughout his life; care-giver & close friend Alex Patton, and special friend, Susan Scott. John was born in Columbus, Ohio on April 12, 1964 from the marriage of John Blair Castleman and Marie (Tucker) Castleman. John graduated from Walnut Ridge High School in 1982, and joined the U.S. Army ROTC. John took pride in his military service, and rose through the ranks, retiring as a Major in the Army Reserve, and National Guard, serving two tours - Iraq, and Afghanistan. John graduated from Central State University, and later achieved a Master’s degree from DeVry Institute of Technology, Keller Graduate School of Business. John was exceptional in Math, and Science, In addition to his military career, he worked for 26-years for the Federal Government at DSCC, in Information Technology. John’s affinity for Science led him to build rockets as a hobby; his other favorite hobbies were fast cars, and international travel. John had a love of life, and lived every minute to the fullest. He displayed the power of optimism and positivity, the bright spot in any crowd, and quick to lift, and encourage others for their achievements. He did not accept ‘No’ for something that should have been ‘Yes’, through common sense, which is not common. If you wanted to “get away from it all”, John would happily plan a trip, or take you for a spin in one of his cars, or motorcycle; the louder you screamed, the faster he went! The brightest spot in John’s life was his son, John “Blair” III, born from John’s marriage to Eugenia “Gina” Smith. John gave his whole heart, and took pride in everything he does. Together, John and John III raised their beautiful dog, Angel, who will remain with John III. He was a positive role model, a good father, and sustained to keep his son in his life. John’s 16-month battle with cancer was fought with honor, and grace. His fight was no less than heroic in the eyes of those around him. John’s family wishes to recognize and acknowledge the excellent treatment, and care he received from The Ohio State University’s James Cancer Center, and Heartland Hospice Care. Our family appreciates those who were able to visit John, show him love, and keep him encouraged.