Kenneth “Kenny” Keith Casto, 94, of Pickens, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024, at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg.
He was born in Pickens on August 15, 1929, a son of the late Wayland Kenneth Casto and Mamie Wave Ogden Casto. On November 8, 1953, Kenny married his true love Norene Virginia Shingleton. After her passing on December 30, 2014, Norene patiently awaited Kenny’s arrival at Heaven’s Gate. They have been reunited to share eternity. In addition to his parents and wife, Kenny was preceded in death by one son, Russell Casto; one grandchild, Lori McDowell; one brother-in-law, Herbert Haslebacher; and one nephew, Charles Haslebacher.
Forever cherishing their memories of Kenny’s generous nature are three daughters: Ruth Ann Bennett of Pickens, Sandra Casto McDowell and husband, Jeff, of Buckhannon, and Janet Atwell and husband, Roger, of Rock Cave; eight grandchildren: Tena Huffman and husband, Jud, of French Creek, Jeanie Walkowiak and husband, Michael, of Virginia, Travis Bennett of French Creek, Carl Bennett and wife, Morgan, of South Carolina, Susan McDowell of Buckhannon, Jason Atwell and wife, Brandi, of Pickens, and Justin Atwell and companion, Jennifer, and Cody Atwell both of Rock Cave; sixteen great-grandchildren; one sister, Joyce Haslebacher of Bridgeport; and several nieces and nephews.
Kenny’s work ethic was unparalleled. As a laborer for the West Virginia Division of Highways for over three decades, Kenny was not just a worker; he was an integral part of the fabric of our community. His dedication was recognized with an impressive tenure of 35 years at the WV Division of Highways in Pickens and Randolph County. He joined the United States Army and served two years during the Korean War. Yet, Kenny’s contributions extended beyond his professional life. As a lifetime member of the VFW in Buckhannon, a devoted member of the Pickens Independent Baptist Church, a former member of the Pickens Volunteer Fire Department, and the Pickens Community Betterment Association, Kenny dedicated himself to improving the lives of those around him. His zest for life and community spirit was evident in his avid volunteering at the Pickens Maple Syrup Festival where he was a founding member. Kenny truly enjoyed helping others. Senator Bill Hamilton presented Kenny (on his 90th birthday) with a Certificate of Recognition from the Senate of West Virginia for his outstanding service to his country, state, and community.
Family and friends will gather for Visitation at Clutter Funeral and Cremation located at 21 Elnora Circle in Buckhannon from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 1, 2024, in the Clutter Funeral Home Chapel with Pastors John Ingram and Jeff Swecker officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Dale Cemetery in Selbyville. Full military honors will be accorded by the U.S. Army and the Upshur County Honor Guard.
We, at Clutter Funeral and Cremation, are honored and privileged to serve the family of Kenneth “Kenny” Keith Casto. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ClutterFuneralHome.com.
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