Robert Cassada

"Smiley" Age 86 passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 22, 2015 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. Bob was born in Johnson City NY a son of Franklin and Mary Elizabeth (VanCampen) Cassada. He is predeceased by his first wife Mary (Kane) Cassada; brothers, William Jack and Richie Cassada. Bob is survived by his second wife Jean (Ackley) Cassada; sons and daughters-in-law, Gary and Susan Cassada with their family of Florida, Jeff and Barbie Cassad with their family of Virginia; daughter and son-in-law, Victoria M. and Todd Corbin Athens PA; granddaughter Jamie Lynn Vang with Derek Grafius of Elmira with her children, Halie and Jordan Wenrich, Christine and Jacob Phillips; grandson Scott Eric Vang II with wife Kara of Waverly and their children Madyson, Zaylee and Jaxson Vang; sisters and brother-in-law, Cara Murdock of South Carolina, Betsy and Russ Travis of Penn Yan NY. Also surviving are Jean's children, Robert and Trudy Deyle of Florida and their children, Ethan and Anna; Laurie Plyem of Rochester and her children Tracey and Michelle; 10 additional great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins Bob was a 1948 graduate of Elmira Free Academy. He was a U S Army veteran serving during the Korean War. On November 1, 1956 Bob was appointed an officer with the Elmira Police Department. Bob use to say that his grandfather, Franklin Cassada was the Chief of Police in Elmira at one time, and was not sure if that is what drew him to the job. He retired from the Elmira Police Department after 35 years of service. During his career Bob earned numerous commendations and awards. He is most likely remembered for his 10 years serving as "Officer Friendly" with the department. While in high school Bob developed a love for swimming. This led him to his first job as a swim instructor at the Elmira YMCA as well as their Water Safety Instructor and Aquatic Instructor. Once he became a police officer he continued as the YMCA Aquatic Instructor until the Y closed. Bob's greatest joy was time spent with family. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 West Water Street, Elmira on Saturday, November 28, 2915 from 12:00 noon to 1:45 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. Committal prayers and interment, with military honors, to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.