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Vincent Cassella

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Vincent “Vin” Donald Cassella of Branford, who died on March 6, 2024, at the age of 81. Vin was born in 1942 to the late Vincent and Marie Cassella of Branford.

He graduated from Branford High School and worked as a carpenter. Together with his late wife, Susan Cogger Cassella, he raised two children, William and Jennifer, in North Branford. Vin later moved back to Branford for the remainder of his life. He was a regular at many local establishments and was welcomed by many with open arms.

Vin was a lifetime baseball fan; in his youth, he played third base for the Branford VETS, coached by his father, Vincent, and made it to the state finals. Vin’s favorite team was the Red Sox, while his father’s was the Yankees. As a teenager, Vin was part of The Avalons, a doo-wop singing group that recorded a single in New York City. He would light up recalling his time with The Avalons while listening to songs of the day through his smart speaker. He was a history buff and often watched documentaries, to the chagrin of his children, monopolizing the only TV in the house! His great sense of humor and story-telling made for many laughs as he recounted the antics of his youth and other everyday situations he found funny. He loved a bargain and couldn’t resist a good deal; even if he didn’t need it, he would take it anyway and pass it along to family or friends.

As a father, he shared with his children his love of music by virtue of singing, harmonizing, and playing records. He also spent a lot of time playing cards with family, especially the game Setback, and in his later years, taught his grandchildren, as well. They loved his silliness and relished his attention. He was a good sport about things, once allowing his face to be painted like Gene Simmons of Kiss and putting up with his daughter’s family for an entire cross-country road trip! He had a generosity of spirit and didn’t hesitate to help when he could. Once, when visiting his daughter in Oregon, he pulled over to help someone change a tire on the side of the road. He was a big collector of things and was always excited to give something away to a family member or friend who could use it. Vin celebrated his 80th birthday last year with family and friends at Café Fiore, his favorite restaurant. He loved good Italian food and enjoyed home-cooked meals made by friends and family.

He is survived by his children, William and Jennifer (Mark); grandchildren, Katherine and Jason Fellows; sisters, Darlene and Debra (Hope); niece Amelia Powers; uncle Ernie; and several cousins locally and around the country.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, March 25, at Clancy Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford, with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by a memorial service. Come and share your memories of Vin.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Parkinsons Foundation website.