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How Bob Cassilly Saved the Pieta, as told by Cecelia Davidson
Randall Johnson
March 3, 2015
HOW BOB CASSILLY SAVED MICHELANGELO' S PIETA
The late American sculptor Bob Cassilly was famous not only for creating great art himself, but also for saving the masterpiece of another great artist. We all owe Bob much gratitude. On May 21, 1972, Bob Cassilly and his first wife Cecelia Davidson were visiting St. Peter's Basilica while on their honeymoon. The same day, a Hungarian named Laszlo Toth, claiming to be Jesus Christ, attacked Michelangelo's Pieta with a chisel. It was Bob Cassilly who subdued Toth, saving the Pieta. In the video interview linked below, Cecelia Davidson gives her first-hand account of what happened that day.
Randall Johnson
https://plus.google.com/u/0/116441966687166079625/posts/3GpUMQ8fctc?pid=6121805427812740194&oid=116441966687166079625
Audrey Burtrum-Stanley
March 17, 2012
I adore his sculptures! He must have been part human and part magic and a lot of fun.
Joey Lenti
October 21, 2011
Thank you, Bob Cassilly, for creating City Museum, a corner of the world where children of all ages go to claim their inner, creative spirit, face their fears, and experience awe, joy, and wonder in a space that encourages co-creation, co-discovery, and re-imagination in each moment. You helped to change the way I perceive the "adult world," and to unmask part of the person I see when I look in the mirror. To the Cassilly family, may you come to find solace and peace in your grief.
Sandra Blazek
October 19, 2011
It was by accident that I learned about Bob's passing. My husband and I had been neighbors of Bob's on Hickory Street many years ago. Over the years, we enjoyed reading about all of Bob's creative ventures including the article in the Wall Street Journal. Without a doubt, Bob was a true genius with a mission to be creative and daring. I am sorry that we didn't get to visit the museum and see your creative genius first hand. What I will cherish most is the surprise that he placed on our moving van before we moved to Chicago. Bob asked the movers not tell us about the magnificent sculpture of a mother holding her child. As it turned out, I was pregnant with our first child. We didn't discover the gift until we unpacked all of our things. What a gift it was and is! It is in a prominent place in our livingroom. The unfortunate thing is the fact the my husband, Tom, passed away on the 20th of September, only a few days before Bob's passing. I know that Tom will be happy to see Bob again in heaven. Bless you Bob and bless your family. You all have been in my thoughts and prayers.
Lauren Suffian
October 3, 2011
Thanks to Bob for making New City School, Dog Town Turtle Park, City Museum places that my sons and I lived with and played/play on. We volunteered for a few years at the City Museum and love it and you. We will miss you.
Vandy Vela-Schneidt
October 1, 2011
'Wonderful family memories at the Ciy Museum, a St. Louis treasure - thanks Cassilly family for your legacy that gives families an opportunity to have their imaginations soar.
Angela W.
September 30, 2011
St. Louis lost a very cool and creative man. My family has had some of our best adventures at City Museum. Thank You Mr. Cassilly for your imagination and innovation.
Circus Harmony's St. Louis Arches at their home: Bob Cassilly's City Museum
Jessica Hentoff
September 30, 2011
My circus, my children (biological and circus) and my day-to-day life would absolutely not have been the same if Bob had not included us in the wonderland that is City Museum. For this, for the hippo on the roof, the frog that contains Corinne's ashes and for all Bob's work and inspiration, I will be forever grateful. Jessica Hentoff, the St. Louis Arches, Circus Harmony and everydaycircus
The White Family
September 29, 2011
Just saw this online. Makes me feel very sad.Our 3 boys have had so much fun at the City Museum. It really was a unknown treasure to a lot of people in town. What a wonderful place built by a man with a great vision. St Louis is a little less excting today.
Laura Biggs
September 29, 2011
Bob Cassilly was a parent at my elementary school. He was a wonderful person, a great contributor to the society, and will be sorely missed.
I remember when I was about 5 and we went to the City Museum only to find it was closed. Bob was nearby and saw us walking back, disheartened...and opened up the City Museum for me and my two brothers. It was literally the greatest day of my life.
John Kennebeck Family
September 29, 2011
Gail and family please accept our deepest sympathy. We lost someone who saw saw things a lot different from everyone else and said why not and went about building them for all of us to enjoy. I had the pleasure of meeting your family and becoming friends many years ago while working at Joseph Drugs in Lafayette Square. I am sure Bob in in heaven right now and saying just let me tweak in up a little bit....look out heaven changes are in stored for you.
Nora Epping
September 29, 2011
What a beautiful way to touch so many lifes, and what a very sad day for such a great loss! Always to be part of this city, Bob's legacy lives on, in the countless children (and children at heart) who love turtle park, who marvel at the City Museum, every glorious purple and black knee - his special mark, and all the other special touches over town. My condolences to all who loved and shared life with him!
Angela Golaszewski
September 29, 2011
To all the wonderful family, friends and crew of Bob Cassilly: Words cannot express enough how I feel for you, and my sincerest condolences go out to you. We lost our mentor and our inspiration; an artistic genius with a big heart. Bob took me in almost 6 years ago, and I have been so honored and grateful to be a part of the incredible and magical one-of-a-kind world of City Museum. My thoughts and prayers are always with you, and Bob's memory will remain in my heart and mind forever.
And to Bob: Your staff will carry on your legacy, and we will never forget you. We weren't the same people we are now today when we first stepped foot into your amazing world, and it will never be the same without you. Thank you for everything you taught us, everything you did for us, everything you left behind for everyone to enjoy.
We miss you and love you, Bob.
-Angela Golaszewski
City Museum Office Administrator
Allison
September 29, 2011
I brought my two sons, ages 7 and 10, to City Museum on Friday, Septmeber 23. We came from Michigan to allow them to experience Mr. Cassilly's wonderland. My boys were in AWE the entire time we were there and expressed that their visit to the museum was one of the best days of their entire lives. Thank you, Bob Cassilly, for creating such a wonderous place. My most sincere condolences to those who knew and loved you. Your spirit shines in your creations and will live on in in each child, and adult, who gets to experience them. Our memories of City Museum will last forever.
Carol
September 28, 2011
never did I know anyone with such glorious imaginative ideas and the ability to just leap into their construction - no hesitation, just pure creativity; the City Museum was THE place everyone in the family looked forward to going.
ray lynch
September 28, 2011
To the family of Bob our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to you and yours . and to Bob thanks for creating a place that families will enjoy for years to come .I am very saddened to hear of his death.
September 28, 2011
The one item I will always remember is the giant praying mantis. Bob's touches are all over our great city. He will be missed so much but always remembered. Jan Wilson
Maria Atchison
September 28, 2011
I will miss the sparkle in your eyes, and your secretive smile. Your love of life, love of art and love of love. Thank you for sharing your visions and especially for bringing them to life, Bob. Many condolences to your family and friends.
Linda Langer
September 28, 2011
Bob could look at the world and see fun things that weren't there yet. Then he would make them happen...
From a former Lafayette Square neighbor
Tammy Hantz
September 28, 2011
Our deepest sympathy for the Cassilly Family. Bob will be greatly missed. Our Prayers are with you. May God Bless you all.
Sincerely,
T. Hantz & The Parks Family
September 28, 2011
thankyou.
lecil and steve saller
September 28, 2011
we send our deep sympathy to on cassilly's family.
his creativity reached thousands of people in st.louis and other cities throughout the united states. we remember his giraffe for the dallas zoo destined to be taller than the state's statue of sam houston.
bob's presence is found all over st. louis. there could be a delightful bob cassilly tour map.
his loss is great.
lecil and steve saller
September 28, 2011
The family of a wonderful person,
Where else can an adult go and act like a kid but The City Museum! Please keep Bob's happiness alive.
Thanks to Bob Cassilly.
Karen Geldbach
September 28, 2011
On behalf of the family of Scott Pircher (Deceased 06/15/11) I offer our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Bob Cassilly, Scott worked with Bob for several years and was planning to get together with him again soon. To G and all family members, our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time in your life.
Sincerely, (Scott's mother)
September 28, 2011
To the Family of Bob my thoughts and prayers go out to you. And to you Bob, thank for creating this awesome place and for introducing the world of Art to my brother Tony. He is proud of this place. Your memory will forever live on.
May God bless you all and hold you in his care.
~Gina, Moberly, MO
Marissa Sigler
September 28, 2011
I will never forget my first experience visiting the museum! I loved the vibe, I loved the people, I loved the idea of it! So much in fact that I applied to work there and got hired instantly! I was active duty Air Force at the time and had to get special commander approval to even take on a second job. The museum was that important to me, it was my home away from home! I remember seeing Bob roaming around working on projects, I was fascinated. For he was a man who truly saw the world in a unique way! I am so thankful for the memories and because of the museum I still have friends that I keep in touch with today nearly 9 years later! I hope the museum and all of his outstanding work stands the test of time for everyone to enjoy! Such loss! My heart goes out to his loved ones!
Jocelyn
September 27, 2011
I LOVE YOU BOB.....Forever and ever
oxoxoxo jocelyn (jojo)
Kathy McHaney
September 27, 2011
I've been to the City Museum several times with my children. On the most recent trip, I realized that the adults there were not only smiling, but they were grinning! And laughing like children do! It is a great place for kids, but the genius behind it is that children already think like the City Museum looks. It is adults who need to find that fresh sense of wonder and imagination! Thanks, Bob, for being the visionary of one of the best museums ever!
Sandy LaRouche
September 27, 2011
Bob Cassilly was our own Willy Wonka; He was "the maker of magic, the dreamer of dreams" and he shared them with us. He gave us the Golden Ticket to his world of imagination.
He should have won a McArthur Grant for his genius and for his daring, his way of seeing the world through new eyes. Long ago I walked into his shop and he had a little clay dragon in his hand, "Look," he said, plunging a bamboo skewer through it, "This will be the fence for the museum" He made it happen and he would have made so much more happen. We are so sorry that his wife and little children won't have him in their lives. We are sorry for all of us that we won't have him in our lives. We send our love,gratitude for all the joy he gave us and our deepest condolences.
The Snow Queen and best beloved, Sandy & Bob LaRouche
barb olson
September 27, 2011
i have admired the artistic genius, bob cassilly, ever since i met him some 25 years ago. his death is a huge loss not only for his family and friends but also for the st. louis community and beyond. my hope is that as a community we can honor bob by seeing that cementland is completed exactly as he envisioned. thanks for being the amazing individual you are, bob.
Chris Carr
September 27, 2011
I can't believe you're gone neighbor. Even though I didn't get to know you very well, I will miss you terribly. You were a major reason why I was proud to be from Saint Louis.
Stephanie Shannon
September 27, 2011
Bob - Thank you for your vision. Your legacy will continue to inspire us to always chase our dreams, no matter what the obstacles may be. I am honored to be a part of City Museum, a part of your dream.
Enjoying the hippo at the zoo.
Cindy Paul
September 27, 2011
The original "Interactive Art_ist" (Who needs Apps?)... What a playful and silly concept he started. I mean, who would ever want to climb on art or slide down art. Beautiful, wasn't he? Thanks for sharing your joy with us. Wishing his family and friends many prayers as they grieve for him and then find a way to celebrate his life.
Mary Davidson
September 27, 2011
If the City Museum were your only legacy, Bob, you would have accomplished more than the vast majority of us ever will. Yet all over St. Louis there are pieces of your vision, many I am just learning about in the tributes to you. All of us are enriched by your having been here. You were never "finished" with anything - you just kept creating...rest in peace, Bob. You deserve it.
Alysa Stewart
September 27, 2011
Bob Cassilly had a vision no one else did. I had the pleasure to see all of the amazing progress he had made on Cementland, working with the Riverview City Hall. I also had the pleasure to meet Mr. Cassilly. He was a unique spirit, never without a smile on his face. My heart is sad that our world will never get to see his vision of Cementland completed. Rest in Peace Bob, the world is a little less bright without you in it. :)
Debra Stamp
September 27, 2011
I was so elated that he created his dreams, and shared them with us. He inspires. He was a kindred spirit.
He was magic.
J. Desy Schoenewies
September 27, 2011
I met you briefly when I was in high school. You were the first professional artist I ever spoke with, and yet you were such an inspiration. Not only did you talk of your latest projects with fiery delight, but you displayed a such a remarkable level of humbleness and kindness towards a group of curious, young, artist teens. That meeting still has a lasting impact on me as an artist and as a person who works with other aspiring young artists. The City Museum is a magical legacy of your art and your vision, and we are all fortunate to make it part of our home in St. Louis. You brought art out of the galleries and into the public eye, making art accessible for all people. Your legacy will continue to inspire young people to be imaginative, playful, creative, and to smile at the whimsical for all their lives. Thank you Bob.
Terri Olack
September 27, 2011
To the Cassilly family--My son worked for Bob at the museum for a couple of years. It was the best time of his life. Bob was such an inspiration and a mentor to him. I wish I'd had the chance to thank him for his role in shaping the character of my son and being such a positive influence for him. I hope you get some degree of comfort in knowing that Bob had such a big impact on individual lives as well as the community as a whole. I am so sorry for your loss.
Suzanne Engbert
September 27, 2011
Dear Mr. Cassilly, thank you For giving St. Louis so much of yourself. You touched so many with your gifts of LOVE!!! My deepest sympathy to your Family! You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten. R.I.P.
Mary & Rich D.
September 27, 2011
Immagination! Wonder! Amazing! That says it all about Bob Cassilly's talent. Always willing to help his neighbors too. Our prayers and thoughts go out to your family. His laugh will be missed! Your Riverview Neighbors.
September 27, 2011
I was at City Museum this summer for yet another overnight and found myself thinking about what will happen if / when Bob Cassilly is no longer here to inspire and create such a place? As I reflect on Bob Cassilly's untimely death, I am reminded to LIVE. We cannot do what he has done or be who he was -- but we can certainly try be who WE are with a whole lot more energy and creativity. Thank you Bob for setting such a great example.
Barbara Combs
September 27, 2011
Thank you for the whimsy, the magic, the fun family times your City Museum and Turtle park gave to my family. You will be missed and are gone way too soon. To your family: God bless you, I am sorry for your loss.
Pamela Salata
September 27, 2011
For the hours of exploration and fun I thank you Mr. Cassilly from me and my sons Andy and Dylan.
Mary Osterholt
September 27, 2011
Bob - you touched so many people in their hearts, minds, and souls. You always were an angel walking among us.
Dan Heaman
September 27, 2011
Mr. Cassilly was a rare breed, especially for St. Louis. Almost no one has the kind of vision Bob had. He had an unmatched sense of style and the aesthetic, which my fair city sorely lacks. While the world may go on, it certainly has less in it because of Bob's loss. My sympathies to his family.
September 27, 2011
It was my honor to have a chance to work with and for one of the greastest artist of my time. Thank you Bob.
September 27, 2011
You just wish you could say something to Bob yourself. Thanks for sharing your vision, giving the kid in me and my own kid such delights. Not everyone leaves such landmarks...
Remember we know not the time or place so say the I love you's, the thanks, forgive an injustice, reach out and hold each day precious. One day you just might wish, you could say that important one more thing...
Bob, I never knew you, yet loved what you gave. Thank you to the family who shared him with the world. God Bless you and keep you.
September 27, 2011
Bob's will never be forgotton his memory will live with us all forever through his art his vision and his energy.
Tyger Roth
September 27, 2011
Myself and my friends have spent many a wonderful evening at the City Museum. We will always be grateful to Bob for having vision to do what few others have ever done!
Darf Grimmly
September 27, 2011
Hey Bobber, keep smilin'
Diane Holt
September 27, 2011
there are no words to express the loss of this amazing man...the world was truly blessed with his work.
Darel Shelton
September 27, 2011
It is incalculable the value that Mr. Cassilly added to our region. His vision and utter fearlessness in a time when "liability" is an all-encompassing concern, is to be admired and, hopefully, emulated!
shawn
September 27, 2011
me and my wife went to cement land on a saturday about 8 months ago and had asked if we could look around, we were told in a very respectful manner that we could not because of liabilities. in the distance we saw bob working away so driven and focused. you will be missed but you will never be forgotten.
Jeffrey Germer
September 27, 2011
Bob's departure is a loss for the entire St. Louis Metropolitian area. His creations including the City Museum will stand as a testiment to his creativity and drive. I personally have enjoyed many a fun hour with my girls Jenna, Jordan and their friends at "the Museum" climbing through the sculptures and "under the floor".
To the Cassilly Family....may the Holy Spirit embrace you in your time of grief.
The lost for us all, going forward, it to miss out on Bob's next great achievement.
Rest In Peace Bob.
Laura Brannon
September 27, 2011
My family has been to the City Museum countless times and the girls have had countless hours of fun! Thanks Bob for creating such a wonderful world of make believe. You will be missed but never forgotten. My condolences to the family.
Cynthia Myers Ludewig
September 27, 2011
Bob gave to St. Louis all the best an artistic genius could possibly manifest in his lifetime. City Museum is like a Manmade Wonder of the world. I feel deep compassion for the Cassilly family, for the many employees who are shocked and stunned. I just happen to be n NYC visiting my daughter Elani. She's been sharing tidbits about her encounters with Bob, her former boss and in her mind a mentor. As she expressed "he lived life on the edge". His life so well spent he will live on in the hearts of many.
Peggy Rustige
September 27, 2011
Our City and our neighborhood lost an incredible visionary and talented artist today. Our prayers and hearts go out to the family , G and the kids. Bob's legacy will live on for future generations to enjoy.
Bob Holtz
September 27, 2011
Wherever he is, it's about to get more interesting there.
Barbara McCullough
September 27, 2011
I have been to City museum and have enjoyed looking at the turtle park when driving on Clayton. What a great mind Bob had.
marie douglas-wigglesworth
September 27, 2011
Sorry for your loss Melissa.
L & T Keay
September 27, 2011
Nathan modeled for Bob at age 9 months. we remember with joy of having known him and his crazy creativeness.
Chuck Finan
September 27, 2011
I'm guessing the Gates of Heaven and a couple of Thrones are about to be "Repurposed"!!!
Dennis Brannaker
September 27, 2011
St. Louis lost one of the brightest stars in the sky when you left us, Bob I know you're designing something wonderful in your new home & its just as great as what you did here if not even greater, we at KDHX will miss you greatly
Brandy Young
September 26, 2011
You are a breathe of fresh air. Your creations took my children and I into a magical story book world. Your talent is truly a gift. You are Brilliant and I am stricken with grief. Prayers and Positive energy will be dispersed accordingly. Rock heaven Mr.Cassilly
Joe Salerno
September 26, 2011
Some of my best times with my daughter in St Louis were at the city museum. Bob did and will continue to bring vision, light and happiness to this city.
Scott Tjaden
September 26, 2011
Thank you for your gift of your art and courage to bring it to light... you'll always be an inspiration for all. I'll miss you.
Katie
September 26, 2011
Thank you so much for all that you did for St. Louis. City Museum plays a huge part in my favorite memories from highschool. Those late friday and saturday nights were some of the best times with my friends. Thank you so much for all of the wonderful experiences and memories. RIP
Maria Torrini
September 26, 2011
Our entire family is in shock over Bob's death. Words cannot begin to describe the sadness,loss we are feeling at this time. Bob was like one of our family, someone my father respected, saw as his wayward son. We have so many good memories of him working in dad's studios,his antics in Italy, just stopping by to say Hello. Dad respected his talent, hard work, genius, joi de vivre. Our thoughts and prayers are with his mother, brother, wife, kids, Gail. He was unique, a diamond in the rough, who became the talented swan. We won't forget him.
Maria, Ann Torrini, Gloria, Rudy, John, and Dad.
Tom Reese
September 26, 2011
Bob,you were living proof that the line between genius and madness was thin.I had a blast working in the shop..made some money selling my goods.You will be missed...
Terry Brookman
September 26, 2011
Good by Bob.
RichardW
September 26, 2011
I'm one of many to enjoy the fruits of Bob's labor. Thank you for the ideas, the execution, the memories, and the willingness to stick to your vision. We've all benefitted
Kim Hine
September 26, 2011
So sorry for the loss to the cassilly family. I am honored to say I worked for him.
Gary Buchanan
September 26, 2011
We lost not only a great person but a fading example of a man with the true pioneer spirit not afraid to take a leap and believe in hmself not caring of the public or governing mind set. Can't be replaced. Condolences to the family!
Jim &jana May p cow
September 26, 2011
Gaudy and bob are working together now on a bigger project they will always be remembered.
Roxanne L
September 26, 2011
St. Louis lost a wonderful person today. His ability to turn the ordinary into EXTRAordinary was amazing. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Jenn H
September 26, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Cassilly family and friends.
Sharon Miller
September 26, 2011
What a loss for the city. Bob was such a creative genius. He turned his passions for art and environmentalism into something of joy that can be shared by all. Prayers to the family for this genius of innovation. So sad.
Dru Klaus
September 26, 2011
I am as well, fortunate to have met this man.
Elani Myers
September 26, 2011
Bob lived a dream that many would have been insecure to forge ahead. He was a guiding force to make the unimaginable come to reality. I treasure all my memories with him that flood my mind right now. He called me serantonin girl. My love and warmest regard go out to G and the kids. St. Louis has lost a treasure of a man who thankfully graced us with much that will live on for a long, long time.
Charles Roberts
September 26, 2011
My prayers go out to the Cassilly Family.
David
September 26, 2011
I'm glad I got to meet you.
September 26, 2011
St. Louis lost one of their great ones today. His ability to keep thinking like a child was wonderful. Not many people are able to dream the way he could. I hope St. Louis never forget the man who was proud to still think like a child and was not afraid to asky why can't we do that.
J. Rick
Cyndi McCaig
September 26, 2011
St. Louis has lost a visionary. My thoughts & prayers go out to his family.
Susan Smith
September 26, 2011
A tremendous loss to St Louis.
My prayers go out to the Cassilly family & all those who knew & loved Bob.
RIP
September 26, 2011
So glad I had a wonderful tour of your museum by my dear friend and your employee a few months ago. You have touched so many people. You define, "tour de force." You will be sorely missed.
roxanne landman
September 26, 2011
condolences to family and his museum family---the world is missing out
Nancy Lampert
September 26, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Cassilly family. Bob Cassilly will be greatly missed. We hope his dreams continue.
augusta
September 26, 2011
bob's legacy of inspirational art will remain within us forever ..... st. louis was so lucky to be the recipient of this amazing man's vision of inspired imaginative thought and action. thank you for sharing your passion with all of us .... our deepest sympathy .....
kristi hackett
September 26, 2011
You will be missed
tamara wade
September 26, 2011
you will be missed,thanks for what you did for my sons.
Charles Unger
September 26, 2011
Thank you, Bob. Your faith in our city helped millions of people rediscover their imagination.
Glenn Ransom
September 26, 2011
A sad loss of a true visionary
September 26, 2011
Thanks for all you had to offer St. Louis. You will be missed.
Chelsy McInnis
September 26, 2011
You were truly an inspiration to this city, and brought happiness to anyone who stepped foot in the City Museum. You'll be greatly missed, not only by your loved ones, but by a city who loved you.
Sheri Rodgers
September 26, 2011
You will truly be missed by all.
Kat Dankel
September 26, 2011
Bob's work is so inspiring, creative, and just plain fun. I've had so many great memories at City Museum. Thanks, Bob, for the smiles. You are a jewel in St. Louis's crown.
Sheri Rodgers
September 26, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
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