John J. Castelli, Jr.

John J. Castelli, Jr., 90, of Collinsville, IL, passed away Monday, May 25, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born on September 8, 1935, in Fairmont City, IL, to John and Mary (nee Vecera) Castelli, Sr. On February 23, 1957, he married the love of his life, Letha Finley in Fairmont City, IL.

He faced hardship early in life, losing his mother at just 12 years old. He and his sisters were lovingly taken in and raised by their Aunt Annie, whose care helped guide them through difficult times.

As a young man, John was incredibly athletic and enjoyed playing baseball and soccer. He later proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, carrying that same sense of dedication and selflessness throughout his life. After his time in the Army, John upheld a long and fulfilling career working for, and retiring from Pepsi-Cola

John enjoyed the outdoors and found happiness in fishing, landscaping, and spending evenings around bonfires with family and friends. Above all else, he loved his family dearly and worked tirelessly to provide for those he cared about.

John was a strong and selfless man who overcame many obstacles in life but always persevered. He will be remembered for his generosity, his love for others, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Letha Castelli; parents, John and Mary Castelli, Sr.; grandson Johnny Castelli; infant great granddaughter, Margaret; sister, Rosemary Hopwood.

John is survived by his children, John J. (Peggy) Castelli, III, Richard “Mike” (Kerri) Castelli, Debbie (Jerry) Carver, Gary (Kim) Castelli, Greg (Nancy) Castelli, Mary Castelli-Cates; grandchildren, Erin, Ronnie, Christian, Kristi, Michael, Eric, Tara, Ashley, Josh, Nikki, Caitlyn, Paige, Daniel, Joseph; sister, Catherine “Toots” Castelli; numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many loving friends.

Memorials may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project or The Gary Sinise Foundation.

Visitation: Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM, at Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, in Collinsville, IL.

Funeral Service: Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 9:30 AM, Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

Clergy: Brian Crocker

Interment: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.

Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.