James Cassel

Born in Uniondale on February 13, 1937, James Cassel was lovingly known as “Jim” to those who knew him.  While enrolled at Patchogue High School, he was active in basketball, track and field, and was Co-Captain of the 1954 football team.  Jim was the only football player from PHS or PMHS to be named “All-American” by the National High School Football Association.  He went on to attend the University of Bridgeport on a football athletic scholarship and became captain of the football team as well as president of his fraternity.  Jim graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business.

After graduating college, Jim went to work in the family business, Cassel Trucks, along side his father, mother and sister.   Eventually he took on the responsibility of CEO and President, serving in these roles for over 35 years.  Jim built his family business to become one of the largest truck parts distributors on Long Island.

Jim, not someone to stand still, was always looking to do more.  While running a successful business, he and his wife decided to delve into the real estate business and owned various businesses on Fire Island as well as both the North and South Forks of Long Island.  In 1989, Jim and some friends purchased a 36 acre vineyard in Cutchogue, known as Island Vineyards.  Today this vineyard is known as Pellegrini Vineyards.

While the business aspects of his life kept him busy, Jim was always willing to volunteer and give back to the Greater Patchogue Community, both on a personal and business level.  He donated much of his free time to the Kiwanis Club, Knights of Columbus, and Ducks Unlimited, becoming an active member.  He was a proud supporter of St. Joseph the Worker and served on their finance committee.  When St. Joseph the Worker needed a new ceiling in the church, and short of the funds to complete the project, Jim called on his friends and family to donate materials and time to get the job done.  Because of Jim’s involvement, the project was completed in one weekend.

Family was very important to Jim.  There wasn’t anything that brought him more joy than spending time with them.  He loved to hunt and fish and would go on worldwide adventures which always included an array of family and friends.  He was an avid boater and took pride in teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish and dig for clams in Bellport Bay.  Jim and his wife were their grandchildren’s biggest fans when it came to school concerts, athletic competitions, and academic achievements. 

Jim will always be remembered by all who knew him, for his passion for family, friends faith, and his generous heart.