Sam Carl Cassaro

Sam Carl Cassaro, Sr.  86, of Rockford, passed away at 8:22am Thursday, August 27, 2009, in Swedish American Hospital.  He was born February 4, 1923 in Rockford.  Son of Michael and Matila Cassaro.  He married Priscilla Ann Scalise in St Anthony Church on April 28, 1946.  Sam worked for Winnebago Cabinet, Product Display and Woodward Governor.  He was a Veteran of WW II, serving in Europe.  Sam received the Purple Heart as well as many other medals.   He was a member and the Deacon for St Anthony Church.  Sam also belonged to the Holy Name Society and Young Seniors.   He loved the people of St Anthony Church and devoted most of his life to serving them.  He also spent many years serving the people of St. Anthony Hospital, whether it was saying prayers or giving Communion.  Sam enjoyed collecting clowns, teddy bears, reading Louis Lamour, writing poetry and his yearly fishing trips.  He also made an awesome apple pie.Survivors include his wife, Priscilla, 12 children- Rose(Ed)Sterling, John(Darlene)Cassaro of Florida, Jim(Virginia)Cassaro of Florida, Sam(Vicky)Cassaro, Jr of Urbana, IL, Jean(Tim)Brough, Diane Doyle, Pete(Lisa)Cassaro of NC, Carl(Danielle)Cassaro, Christine(John)Drew, Julie(Joe)Massari, Rebecca Gersch and Patrick(Lydia)Cassaro of Florida,  28 Grandchildren, many great grandchildren,  sister Mary(Leo)Adrignola, sister-in-law Faye Smallwood, and  numerous nieces and nephews.  Mass of Christian Burial  will be at 10am, Tuesday, September 1, 2009, in St Anthony Church with the Franciscan Friars officiating.  Burial in Calvary Cemetery.  Visitation from 4pm until 7pm on Monday August 31, 2009 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel , with rosary at 7pm.  Visitation also from 9am until 9:45 Tuesday in the church.  In lieu of flowers memorials to the family for a fund to be established at a later date.