Garold "Jerry" Vernon Castle, born January 16, 1931, in Seattle, Washington, peacefully passed away on March 31, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was the beloved son of Marion Fisher Castle and spent his childhood exploring the landscapes of Oregon before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean War.
Though recognized for his marksmanship skills, Jerry's family took immense pride in his role as a typist for the military. His exceptional proficiency with typewriters not only contributed to the efficiency of his unit but also earned him admiration from his fellow soldiers.
Jerry's journey led him to San Diego, California, where he eventually encountered the love of his life, Mary. Their serendipitous meeting marked the end of his "journey to San Diego." Prior to Mary, Jerry had been married to Kyong Lee and together they raised three boys. Jerry was one of the first G.I.s to bring home a wife from Korea, and he and Kyong Lee worked tirelessly to provide a loving home for their Korean-American family. Jerry also extended his kindness to other G.I.s, assisting them in naturalizing their new wives to their new life in America.
As a young family navigating the complexities of life, Jerry always emphasized the importance of honesty, instilling in his sons the timeless lesson: "don't ever lie." Despite the challenges they faced, Jerry approached life with unwavering determination and fairness, leaving an indelible impression on all who knew him.
Though Jerry's first marriage eventually came to an end, life blessed him with the introduction of Mary, who became his steadfast companion and the center of his universe. Together, they embarked on new adventures, building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering integrity, survived by his daughter Bernice and her husband, Johnny Frost, his sons Barry, Gary, and Jerry, as well as a host of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Marion, and his beloved wife, Mary.
A funeral service to honor and celebrate Jerry's life will be held on Wednesday, April 17, at 2 PM at Greenwood Cemetery. While he may have departed this world, Jerry's spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Garold Vernon Castle, please visit our floral store.