Richard Cassem, 85

Published 11:15 am Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Richard Fredrick Cassem, 85, died Feb. 20, 2011.

He was Born Dec. 3, 1925, to Elmer and Blanche (Ruble) Cassem in Ellendale, Minn. Mr. Cassem graduated from Ellendale High School Class of 1943 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, 3rd Division, 3rd JAFCO. His tour of duty included Guam, Iwo Jima and China. Following World War II, he resettled in Albert Lea, Minn., where he met and married Betty Jane Evenson in 1947. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Austin, Minn. Richard Cassem worked for Austin Utilities from 1950 until his retirement in 1984.

Mr. Cassem was always proud of his family, his work and a good game of golf. For many years he could be found at the Wednesday Men’s night, golfing with his

children and friends at the Cedar Valley Country Club in Adams, Minn. Post retirement, he enjoyed traveling to Hawaii and Florida with Betty, to whom he was happily married for more than 62 years.

Mr. Cassem is preceded in passing by his parents and brother Robert Cassem.

He is survived by his wife; sons, Mark Cassem of Kasson, Minn. and Bruce Cassem of The Dalles, Ore.

Always recalling the generous spirit of the Salvation Army, who, during World War

II, freely gave him a blanket and cup of coffee, Mr. Cassem requested any gifts be

sent to the Salvation Army in his remembrance.

Memorial service will be held at St. Olaf Church, Austin, March 19, at 1 p.m. Following the service, a brief fellowship will be held to celebrate Mr. Cassem’s life of kindness and service.