William Cassin

William Cassin, age 85, of Park Ridge passed peacefully on January 4th with family by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents Johanna and William Cassin, his sister Joan Barker, and his beloved baby grandson David Cassin. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Karen; his daughter, Kristine, of Park Ridge; son Bill (Elizabeth) of Palatine; and grandchildren Liam, Anna, and Maya.

Bill was born and raised in Chicago where he attended Mt. Carmel High School before enlisting in the US Air Force where he was attached to the 41st Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, stationed in Guam. Upon discharge in 1957, he was transferred to the USAF Reserve where he served until 1962. During this time, he attended and graduated from St. Joseph College in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. His career path took him from inside sales at Ryerson Steel - to IBM as a Systems Engineer – to Household International as a Telecommunications Manager until his retirement.

In 1970 he met and later (1973) married his wife Karen, who was an Orthopedic RN employed by Bill’s Orthopedic Surgeon. The couple moved to Park Ridge where he became active in the community serving as a member of the Park Ridge Citizens Patrol for 27 years and volunteering for anything that involved spending time with his children, including grade school Fun Fairs, PTOs, coaching soccer, Indian Guides, working as a timer at countless swim meets, and attending many band concerts. Bill was also an active member of the Maine South Music Boosters and St. Paul of the Cross Parish where he served as an usher and Eucharistic Minister for many years.

During his early years, Bill enjoyed skiing, tennis, the Cubs, traveling with his family, and in his later years he enjoyed playing golf and traveling with his wife. He cherished his family and many lifelong friends and the many years spend in the company of both. Bill will be remembered for his integrity, quiet strength, kindness, and for keeping his sense of humor right up until his last days.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, January 8, 10 a.m., at St. Paul of the Cross Church. The mass will be live-streamed on the church website at that time (not sooner) at: www.spc-church.org. Click on livestreams and scroll down to play button to watch. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011

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