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"Les" Casteel, 74, of Springfield, Mo., passed away on Saturday, October 4, 2025. He was born April 6, 1951.
Les grew up in rural Oklahoma, surrounded by the fields and traditions that shaped his character. During his long and full life, Les helped lead Strother High School to a state basketball championship win in 1969, served in the Army, worked as a police officer, and later returned to school at Oklahoma Baptist University, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He went on to become a database administrator.
Les had a lifelong passion for woodworking and woodturning, pursuing it with such dedication that he achieved master status. One of his most meaningful memories was meeting master craftsman Sam Maloof and taking a class with him - an experience he often recalled with admiration and pride. Les's work was featured in numerous publications and earned him great acclaim.
Those who knew him will remember Les as an uncompromising man who lived by his principles and carried himself with determination. He was known for giving the best pep talks, honest and straightforward, but always with love at the core. There was always a joke to be made, and his goofiness made the holidays memorable. He adored his mother, Norma, and often spoke fondly of her cooking, remembering the taste of chocolate gravy, smothered steak, and chocolate pies.
More than anything else, Les was defined by his love and devotion to his wife of 54 years, Jeanette. Their marriage was built on unwavering loyalty, deep affection, and a lifelong commitment to one another, and he considered her the greatest blessing of his life.
In addition to his wife, Les is survived by his sisters, Kathy Crosby and Patricia Fowler; his children, Lucas Casteel and Angela Collins (Casteel); his son-in-law, Donald Collins; his grandson, Huck Collins; and his dear friend, Kara Woody.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Lee Casteel, and his sisters, Mary Ellen Bergsten and Dorothy Davis.
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