Charles S. Cassata

Charles “Charlie” Samuel Cassata March 11, 1926 – April 14, 2025

Charles “Charlie” Samuel Cassata, 99, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born Calogero Samuel Cassata on March 11, 1926, in Garfield, New Jersey, he was the son of Giuseppe and Mattia (Scozzari) Cassata. A proud graduate of Garfield High School, Charlie went on to coach the Pioneers basketball team before answering the call of duty.

At just 17 years old, Charlie enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. He was stationed at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, and earned both the American Theatre Medal and the Victory Medal for his honorable service.

On September 19, 1948, he married the love of his life, Margaret (Vaccarello) Cassata. Together, they worked side by side at Deluxe Cleaners in Passaic, New Jersey. After building their family home in Wayne, they launched their own business—Classic Cleaners in Butler—which later expanded into Classic Cleaners and Tuxedos, and eventually Classic Bridals and Tuxedos. Through hard work and shared vision, Charlie and Marge created a legacy of service to the community.

Charlie was deeply involved in the Butler community. He was a proud Third-Degree Knight of Columbus and served as President of the Optimist Club, where he dedicated his time and energy to uplifting those around him.

After retirement, Charlie and Marge settled in Brick, New Jersey, before moving to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains. Charlie thrived in the Cedar Crest community, forming close friendships, enjoying numerous activities, and especially savoring a good poker game. A lifelong sports fan, he could often be found cheering on his beloved Yankees and Giants.

One of Charlie’s greatest joys was spending summers with his family on Long Beach Island, New Jersey, where memories were made over beach days, games of 3-13, root beer floats and laughter around the dinner table. It was a place of peace and joy that he held close to his heart.

In 2022, Charlie proudly participated in the 25th Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.—a journey he cherished as a WWII veteran.

Charlie was predeceased by his wife of 70 years, Margaret Cassata, and their beloved son, Joseph Anthony Cassata. He is survived by two loving daughters: Theresa Cassata of Long Beach Island, NJ, and Carolyn (Cassata) Lundy and her husband, Chuck Lundy, of Pompton Plains, NJ. He also leaves behind three grandchildren: Joseph Cassata of Summerville, SC; Deanna (Lundy) Strausbaugh and her husband Josh of Frederick, MD; and Christopher Lundy of Butler, NJ. Charlie’s legacy lives on through his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom were touched by his warmth, wisdom, and enduring love.

Charlie lived a life marked by dedication—to his country, his family, and his community. His presence, stories, and steady kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.