Obituary published on Legacy.com by Duncan Graves Funeral Home - Presque Isle on Jan. 1, 2025.
Presque Isle- William "Bill" Casavant, 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at the Aroostook House of Comfort.
Bill, the son of Wilfred and Anne (Bynan) Casavant, was born and raised in Holyoke, Massachusetts. This is where Bill's love for sports began. In his youth he spent his time at the local YMCA, the little league ball field as well as joining in on a daily neighborhood game of "something" until dark.
His passion for sports led him to Aroostook State College (UMPI) where he played soccer and basketball while earning a degree in physical education. After graduation, he began his career in 1972 teaching at LAFB and Limestone where he coached soccer, basketball and baseball- leading the teams to many successful seasons. In 1980 Bill transitioned his career to NMVTI (NMCC) where he taught physical education, served as their athletic director all while coaching the Falcons soccer and basketball teams. During these years, Bill also earned his Masters degree from UMO. He refereed soccer and umpired baseball on various levels ranging from little league to professional. He was honored in 2022 by the Maine Principals Association for 50 years of service umpiring high school baseball. Bill went on to serve as the Director of Admissions at NMCC in 1995-2008. After his retirement from NMCC, he served as the athletic director at the University of Maine at Presque Isle for two years. Bill also shared his passion for sports broadcasting hockey and basketball on the radio for over 30 years. He was a member of the UMPI Athletic Hall of Fame, the Maine Sports Legends, and the Maine Baseball Hall of Fame.
Bill founded and directed Aroostook Basketball Camp in Presque Isle. It gave him great pride to see those who had attended become successful athletes. Both his children and grandchildren were greatly influenced by his knowledge and experiences. Whether it was a game of golf, he was spectating their games or even coaching them, he enjoyed every moment of time spent with them and following their endeavors.
Bill loved and genuinely cared for people. He left an impact on many that extended far beyond the gym or playing field. He held an immeasurable influence on many he coached and officiated for. He will be remembered for his kindness, his ability to spark conversation and his dedicated passion for sports.
Bill was predeceased by both of his parents. He will be lovingly remembered by his family: wife of 54 years, Daryl (Bannan) Casavant, his sons Chris and wife Angel, Matt and wife Angie, Nick and wife Jess; grandchildren, Meg and Mia, Emma and Allison, Charli and Cruze; and a very special niece, who was more like a daughter, Andrea Pinette and husband Mike, and daughter Mackenzie Pinette Welch. He is survived by his brother, Tom, and many nieces and nephews. He leaves behind many fellow umpires, golf partners and former players that were cherished friends.
The family wishes to thank The Aroostook House of Comfort and the Northern Light Hospice team whose care and compassion was so appreciated. Those who wish to donate in Bill's memory may do so to the Aroostook House of Comfort, 18 Greenhill Drive, PO Box 867,
Presque Isle, ME 04769 or the
charity of their choice.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements in care of Duncan-Graves Funeral Home, 30 Church Street,
Presque Isle, ME 04769.