James Edward Cassidy
It is with profound sadness that the family of James Edward Cassidy announce his peaceful passing on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, surrounded by family. James was born in Toledo on July 29, 1932, to Betty and Peter Cassidy.
He was a devout Catholic, a true family man, who prioritized his faith and family above all else. He was proud of his family and made each and everyone feel loved and special. He was known as Papa Jim to all his great-grandchildren.
He grew up in South Toledo, attended St. James grade school, and Central Catholic High School where he graduated in 1951. He also attended Michigan State Normal College (Eastern Michigan University) where he was a member of their football team. While at Central he met the love of his life, Janet Martin, who he married on September 25, 1954.
Jim was a hardworking successful salesman for The Athletic Supply Company. He was well known by many high school and college athletic directors and coaches in the state. He was greatly respected by all who knew him. He went on to own several businesses including Monroe Sporting Goods, Cassidy's Parti Store, and Cass's Cones.
He was an avid Notre Dame fan and once took a train at age 16 to South Bend to see a football game. He also enjoyed watching his Detroit Tigers, along with his beloved Detroit Lions. Especially this past season when he watched every football game with daughter Judy.
After losing his wife, Janet, in 2013 after 59 years of marriage, he stayed busy volunteering for the Sylvania Township Police department, swimming, attending church daily, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his children, Pat (Laurie) Cassidy, Kevin (Cindy) Cassidy, and Judy Cassidy - Burford; grandchildren, Sean (Leila) Cassidy, Brianne (Jason) Hartke, Mickey (Tara) Cassidy, Erin (Everett) Barton, and Ryan Burford; great-grandchildren, Kara, Kevin, Don, Claire, Cassidy, Stella, Victor, Owen, Elliott, his namesake James; and many nieces and nephews who love him dearly.
James was preceded in death by his wife, Janet; his parents; brother, Bill (Faye) Cassidy; and sister, Peg Songer; son-in-law, Rick Burford; in-laws, Joyce (Jack) Cherry, James (Peggy) Martin, Jane (Gene) Sulewski, Jack Martin, and Jerome Martin.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their wonderful care of Jim during his last days. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider, It's a Sensory World (Jim had a special place in his heart for this wonderful school). It's a Sensory World! 13617 Neutron Road, Farmers Branch, TX 75244
https://itsasensoryworld.org/donate-isw/ or Hospice of Northwest Ohio.
Memorial mass to celebrate Jim's life will be held Thursday, June 6, 2024, at St. Patrick of Heatherdowns at 10 a.m. Friends may gather before mass at 9:30 a.m.
Published by The Blade on Jun. 2, 2024.