William "Bill" Castleman

William “Bill” Castleman died peacefully at his home in Ludlow, Kentucky, on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 surrounded by his wife and children.  Bill spent his final days with his college and childhood friends with laughter and many toasts made in his honor.

Bill was born July 8, 1970 in Dayton, Kentucky to parents, Tom and Nancy Castleman. He graduated from Dayton High School and attended Eastern Kentucky University.  Bill was employed for several years by Joseph Automotive Group.

He had a passion for local live music and spent many years frequenting the Blind Lemon, Southgate House, and Mansion Hill Tavern. He knew many musicians and his biggest regret was never learning to play the guitar but, in his words, “It is what it is,” and he relished the talent of others.

Bill was an avid bourbon aficionado who treasured sharing his latest finds.  During the summer of 2012 Bill met Jeni and the pair was fortunate to share a remarkable life together exploring their interests in sporting events, wine tastings, Sundays at Findlay Market, and traveling.

Last fall, Bill was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and the two exchanged wedding vows shortly after, combining the two families into one.

During the past year, Bill was treated at The Christ Hospital Cancer Center where he received exceptional care under the direction of Dr. Irfan Firdaus and staff. As a testament to his easygoing nature, he was frequently heard telling others, “I’m good with this. I’m at peace.” In the months following, he and Jeni took three honeymoons and, she says, “We lived this year. We were so blessed.” He had been the original ringleader for the family’s entertainment and often shared his enthusiasm for the city with their children.

Bill had a love of life and a commitment to kindness; he would do anything for anyone. Bill wanted his family to understand life is what you are dealt and to live it with honor.  He possessed a profound love and devotion for his family and friends. Above all else, he died with dignity.

Bill is survived by his wife, Jeni George-Castleman of Ludlow, KY, his daughters, Kate Castleman and Kelsey Castleman, both of Cincinnati, two stepsons, Nikolas George (Kendra) of Rochester, MN, and Brandon George of Bellevue, KY, and his mother, Nancy Castleman of Dayton, KY. He also leaves behind two treasured dogs, Bentley and Henry.  He was preceded in death by his father, Tom Castleman.

Due to COVID restrictions, a private memorial service and celebration of Bill’s life will take place on Tuesday at Drees Pavilion, which holds many tender memories for Bill and family. Flowers may be sent to 790 Park Lane Covington, Kentucky 41011.

Bill’s many friends and family are asked to think of a favorite memory of him, and toast a drink in his honor. Donations can also be made to The Christ Hospital Chaplain’s Discretionary Fund, 2139 Auburn Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45219.

To share a memory of William  or leave a special message for the Castleman family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."  

Walker Funeral Home, 1129 Garrard Street, Covington, Kentucky (41011)  is honored to serve the  Castleman family.  Please call (859) 261-6635 or visit www.WalkerFuneralHome.com for additional information.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William "Bill" Castleman, please visit our floral store.