John Kassie

On July 10, just 18 days short of his 100th birthday, John J. Kassie was welcomed into the arms of the Lord to be reunited with his beloved wife Rita. He died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family.

Survivors include his children: Barbara Magister, Carole (John) Morrison), Thomas (Jeanette Erikson) and Michael (Debbe); his grandchildren: Charise (Mick) Krstic, Lisa (George) Manesis, Laura (Chris) Daves, Tina Morrison, John (Lindsay Beaman), Kerry (Dave) Blondheim; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His sister, Helen Welch of Hobe Sound, Fla., also survives him. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Tucker Daves, and a son-in-law, Edward Magister.

John was born, raised, married and worked in Chicago until a vacation to Wisconsin in 1951 prompted him to give up city life and purchase Shady Brook Farm west of Colby, a decision he never regretted. John was a man of many talents, never afraid to tackle any job that was necessary, a talent that came in handy on the farm. A devoted husband to Rita for 67 years before her death in 2012, he was a loving father, a fun-loving grandfather, a good neighbor and a role model for many. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

John and Rita were lifelong members of St. Mary’s Parish. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus, serving as a Grand Knight. He was a town of Colby supervisor during the 70’s. After retirement, they became winter Texans, living in McAllen at McAllen Mobile for over 30 years.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 12 noon at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Parish in Colby on Saturday, July 23, 2022. Father Joseph Redfern will preside. Family and friends are welcome on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of service at the church. Live stream will be available for those unable to attend on the Maurina Schilling Funeral Home Facebook page or after the service anytime on Facebook or the website. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Colby is entrusted with the arrangements.

Special appreciation to Dr. Carolyn Ostrander and staff as well as to the staff of Heartland Hospice for their compassionate care.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School, Colby, or Heartland Hospice, 3233 A Business Park Dr., Stevens Point.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.

Paid obituary 123673