John Casey
February 26, 1948 - April 21, 2025
John Leslie Casey, 77, of Ponca City, OK, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Crematory, 505 W Grand Ave, Ponca City, OK 74601. Born on February 26, 1948, in Boone, Iowa, to James Edward and Gwendolyn Irene Casey, John lived a full and remarkable life-defined by service, skill, dedication, and an unforgettable sense of humor. John stated he was Catholic.
Services will be 3 pm, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Trout Funeral Home Chapel, Ponca City, OK.
John read avidly, high school was no challenge to him, he worked to help support his family. Eventually went to work at Archway Cookies’ transportation department, working alongside his beloved uncles, Don and Dwain Wilcox.
John served his country with honor in the United States Marine Corps. After boot camp in San Diego and training at Joint Base El Toro, he was stationed at the Marine Air Base in Kailua, Hawaii near Pearl. There, he specialized in radio and radar systems for F-4 Phantoms, achieving the rank of Sergeant before receiving an honorable discharge.
Following his military service, John attended Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, earning certifications in aviation technologies he had mastered in the Marines. With his mechanical military mind and natural talent he joined Conoco. as an airborne equipment specialist. His role took him on missions across the western states and the Rocky Mountains, where he maintained sensitive research equipment and a helicopter as a crew chief. This was a perfect combination of technical precision and adventure. John earned the respect of colleagues for being focused and dedicated. His technical precision, leadership, and team spirit earned him the deep respect of his peers and eventually led to supervisory and managerial roles He became the go-to guy for tough assignments around the globe.
An engaged and spirited conversationalist, John was passionate about politics, an interest sparked in his youth exposed to Iowa caucuses. He followed current events closely and was never one to shy away from a lively debate. Known for his razor-sharp wit and perfectly timed one-liners, he lit up any room with his humor and insight. He was well known for his lively banter. He had many friends and relished time spent carousing and sharing stories and poking fun. Proud of his Irish roots, occasionally enjoyed a wee nip of the spirits...
John will be remembered for his courage, intelligence, integrity, and unforgettable presence. He made every room livelier, every conversation smarter, and every friendship richer.
John is survived by his siblings: Edward R. Casey, James E. Casey, Joellen Wells and Christopher C. Capps, niece, Aimee Hanna, nephew, Eric Doxsec, of Boone Iowa, and his step-son, Cory Gann of Ponca City, OK.
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