January 6, 1940 - January 17, 2025
In Loving Memory ~
With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Sterling Conley "Con" Castle on January 17, 2025 at Vernon Jubilee Hospital at age 85. His wife, children and stepchildren were by his side at the time of his passing.
We will miss his friendly demeanour, passionate discussions, contagious smile, and interesting stories. When Con was shocked by news, he would surprise us with an "I'll be jiggered!" He appreciated the help that he received from everyone, especially over the past year.
Con was born on January 6, 1940 in Vancouver, B.C., and grew up in the charming small town of Hope. He married his first love, June, in 1959. Con travelled to various construction jobs throughout B.C., so the family lived in many homes until they finally settled in the Shuswap-North Okanagan area in 1968.
In his spare time, Con enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a skilled wood artisan and a self-taught gunsmith. He crafted several firearms from scratch for family and friends. He created many innovative hoists and gadgets and left behind numerous drawings of his ideas.
He loved country music, especially Johnny Cash, who he got to meet when Cash asked for a cigarette before one of his concerts. He liked long drives in the countryside, sharing stories about road building and septic tank installations. He cherished his family and family ancestry and loved attending family reunions.
After 42 years of marriage, June passed away in 2001. Later, Con married Virginia Bodnar. Together, they embarked on numerous journeys throughout North America, including the prairies, the Maritimes, Alaska, Hawaii, Pennsylvania and many other states. They spent several winters as snowbirds in Arizona and New Mexico, where they enjoyed rockhounding and camping amidst breathtaking scenery. Their adventures even took them to Australia, a place Con held dear.
Con is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia; Con's children, Curtis (Sherri) Castle, Clayton (Tracey) Castle, and Carrie (Steve) Stagg; his stepchildren, Dean Bodnar, Deborah (Jim) Bontempo, and David Bodnar; and several grandchildren and step grandchildren.
He is also survived by his sisters, Elaine (Bert) Forsberg and Esther Davies, and brother, Keith (Cheryl) Castle.
Con was predeceased by his parents, Earl and Emma Castle, sister Darlene Soper, and his first wife, June Castle.
On Saturday, April 26, a Celebration of Life will be held at Grace Baptist Church in Hope, B.C.
The family would like to sincerely thank the wonderful nurses and doctors who provided the best care during Conley's final days.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family at www.CypressFuneral.ca
Arrangements entrusted to Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services®
Armstrong 250-546-7237 & Vernon 250-558-0866
