Herman J. Castle

Herman J. Castle, 77, of the Town of Oppenheim, New York, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2022 at Nathan Littauer Hospital in Gloversville, New York after a cardiac event. At the time of his passing, he had the love and support of his beloved wife, Daisy by his side.

He was born on November 7, 1944 in Schenectady, New York and was the son of the late, Herman and Mary Castle. Herman was educated and graduated from Schenectady School in 1962. He furthered his education at Albany State, Syracuse University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute where he received his Bachelor’s of Education degree.

After receiving his college education, Herman enlisted in the United States Air Force on February 1, 1966 in Albany, New York. He was stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base in Texas as well as several other bases while he was in the military. After nearly four years of service, he was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant (E-5) on March 14, 1967.

On October 21, 1967, Herman was united in marriage to Theodosia Zelezniak in Cohoes, New York. The couple have shared a loving marriage of nearly 55 years this year.

Herman was formerly employed with the United States Navy as a Civilian Tech G57, education specialist for 22 years, retiring in 2004. He also taught night school in Schenectady for many years. After his retirement, Herman and Daisy purchased property in Oppenheim where they established their current home and tree farm called Castle Christmas Trees.

In his spare time, Herman enjoyed learning how to fly airplanes, war movies, and truly loved golf. He also enjoyed hunting on the tree farm and working his property. His most precious time, was spent in the company of his beloved wife and extended neighborhood family. Herman will be truly missed by his family and community.

He is survived by his wife, Theodosia “Daisy” Castle at home; a grandson, Brandon Hulten of Oppenheim, NY; a sister, Ellen Bellit and her husband, Renato of Mariaville, NY; a brother, Steve Gardiner and his wife, Sue of FL; a sisters-in-law, Margaret Castle of Delanson, NY and Christine Gardiner of NY; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Walter Zelezniak and his wife, Margo of Huston, TX; and his extended neighbor family, Ray and Lisa Hulten, Charlie and Susie Sammons and Chad Claus of Oppenheim, NY, in whom Daisy is forever thankful for all their help and support through the years; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Herman was predeceased by his brothers, Michael Castle and Philip Gardiner.

In keeping with family wishes, there will be no immediate services. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later date and will be announced. The family is being cared for by Miller-Plonka Funeral Home, 30 Wolf Street, Dolgeville, New York.

To leave a message of sympathy for the Castle Family, please visit www.millerplonkafuneralhome.com and sign the tribute wall.

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