Willard J. Castle

Willard J. Castle. , Willard "Butch" Castle, was a lifelong resident of Anoka, Marine Corps Corporal, Veteran of World War II, and an outstanding athlete. He received All-Region and All-District honors in basketball while attending Anoka High School and was a notably talented baseball player. His life ended tragically at age 25, during a work accident while employed with the City of Anoka Electric and Water Utility., The first Castle Field, previously known as Greenhaven Field, located on the west end of Main Street, was named and dedicated in his memory in 1953. For 62 years, youth and adults played baseball at the original Castle Field. Willard's memory lives on through all who have played ball on this community field., With cooperation and support form the Anoka American Legion Post #102 and Anoka Hennepin School District, the City of Anoka constructed a new field. In keeping with the traditions of the original field the design included a sunken infield with elevated seating. Monuments from the original facility help connect the past to the present and future. Castle Memorial Field was rededicated on July 3, 2013.