Donald "Don" Castleman, 94, of Fort Wayne, IN, passed away at Parkview North Hospital after a short illness on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born on November 13, 1930, in Fort Wayne, IN to Herman Castleman and Adrienne Galland Castleman.

Don grew up in Fort Wayne, IN, and attended Central Catholic High School. He went on to proudly serve in the United States Air Force as a Staff Sergeant from 1951 to 1955 and was stationed at Westover Air Force Base, MA.

On June 12, 1952, Don married his high school sweetheart Mary (Pepe) Castleman, in Fort Wayne, IN, where, after his military service, they built an enduring and loving life together for over 73 years.

Don had a long career as a route salesman for Seyfert's Foods in Fort Wayne, IN. Known for his strong work ethic, kindness, and integrity, he was respected by colleagues and clients alike.

A man of strong faith and community, as a child, Don served as an alter boy at St. Mary's Catholic Church, belonged and raised his family at St. Vincent's Catholic Church, and was a parishioner of St. Peter's Catholic Church. He was also a distinguished member of the American Legion for 51 years.

He and his beloved wife, Mary, were avid and successful antique collectors/dealers and were well respected by the Midwest antique community. They were also well known participants at the Three Rivers Festival, Johnny Appleseed Festival, Kendallville Apple Festival, and many others.

In retirement, Don loved to garden, feed the squirrels, and care for his chickens. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his sons and son-in-law. He and his wife, Mary, cherished time together with family at their cottage on Lake George in Fremont, Indiana.

Don's family will remember him for his patriotism, faith, humor, and love of American Legion popcorn.

Don is survived by his wife, Mary, of Fort Wayne, IN, and their children: Mark Castleman (Alice) of Fort Wayne, IN, Alan Castleman (Rene), of Woodburn, IN, Brad Castleman (Teresa) of Beaumont, CA, and Sara Bentz (Steve) of Leo, IN; seven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; sisters, Joyce Butler, Delores Morris, and Helen Huff; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his son, Dale Castleman, his daughter, Sharon Miller, his granddaughter, Jessica Castleman-Besterda, his sister, Mary Boston; and his brothers-in-law, George Morris, Theodore Huff, Sr., Jim Butler, and Don Boston.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 18, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 518 Dewald St., Fort Wayne, IN. A Catholic Funeral Mass will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m., with Monsignor Tom Shoemaker officiating.

Interment will take place after the Funeral Mass at the Fort Wayne Catholic Cemetery on Lake Ave. Military Honors will be provided by the United States Air Force and American Legion Post 47.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's Catholic Church in Don's memory.