Wilma Louise Castelli

Obituary

Early Life and Family:

Wilma Castelli passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 25, 1938, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to Ernest and Pearl (Peterson) Crossen. On August 15, 1959, Wilma married Robert Castelli, and together they enjoyed 52 years of marriage. They raised three children — Kevin, Robyn, and Chris — who were the center of her life.

A Life of Dedication and Service:

Wilma dedicated over 23 years to her career as a department manager at Wal-Mart in Collinsville, IL. She also worked in a variety of roles at Walgreens in downtown St. Louis, United States Fidelity & Guarantee Co. as a secretary, National Stockyards in advertising, Dolgins Fine Jewelry as an Inventory Associate, and in sales positions at JC Penney, Famous-Barr, and Venture in Fairview Heights. Throughout her career, Wilma worked with a sense of purpose, always bringing a caring and diligent attitude to every role.

Involvement in Family and Community:

A devoted mother and grandmother, Wilma was actively involved in her children’s school and extracurricular activities. She was greatly involved in her children’s sports activities, including baseball, softball, soccer, and school band. Wilma’s commitment to her community extended to her involvement with the Maryville PTA at Maryville West Grade School, where she dedicated her time to supporting fundraising efforts that helped the children.

Hobbies and Personal Life:

Wilma had a special appreciation for the simple things in life. She found peace in watching the hummingbirds that visited her deck, working on crossword puzzles, and following both local and national news. She also found joy in cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals, sharing this love of the game with her family and friends. Above all, Wilma cherished the time spent with her close-knit group of friends, particularly Carol, Georgette, and her lifelong friend Nancy, who brought her so much happiness over the years.

Survived By:

Wilma is survived by her sons, Kevin and Chris of Collinsville; her daughter, Robyn (Marvin) Furry of Edwardsville, IL; and her beloved grandchildren, Jerry (Lorin) Furry of Cottage Hills, IL, and Courtney Furry of Wood River, IL. She is also survived by her brother, Charles (Kathy) Crossen of O’Fallon, IL, and her nephew, Mike (Kathy) Douthit of Bingham, IL, along with many other nieces and nephews.

Preceded in Death:

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Pearl Crossen; her beloved husband, Robert (Bob) Castelli; and her siblings, Doris, Geneva, and Oscar. Though deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Memorial Donations:

Memorial donations in Wilma’s honor may be made to the Edwardsville Humane Society in Edwardsville, IL.

Service Details:

A visitation will be held on August 15, 2025, at Lake View Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, located at 5000 North Illinois Street, Fairview Heights, IL 62208. Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a service from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM, and a committal from 12:45 PM to 1:00 PM. For more information, you may contact the funeral home at 618-233-7200.