Charles Cassella, EE 68

Charlie Cassella (71) died peacefully on Dec 6, 2017, survived by his wife, Judy (DeVincent) EE 71, and his sons, Paul and Raymond, in Baldwin, NY.

While at Cooper, Charlie was active in the Hiking Club and the Rifle Team. He spent so much time at Green Camp that he flunked thermodynamics and had to make it up at City College. During the long gap between his last class and graduation, he and 4 other graduates dropped off some last minute lab reports at Cooper and headed West on a cross-country road trip, getting back just in time for graduation rehearsal.

Charlie retired from the FAA after 43 years. He enjoyed his early years as a runway rat, installing and troubleshooting instrument landing systems throughout the Eastern region, but his later management years not so much. There was also the occasional RF foray into neighborhoods tracking down phantom controllers and interference hotspots.

Charlie had a strong commitment to Cooper over the years, serving several terms on the Alumni Council. He enjoyed many an Alumni Day, Founder’s Day Dinners, and the still ongoing annual Turkey Roast at Ringwood Manor State Park, etc, but his favorite was the Phonathon. He was named Alumnus of the Year in 2010.

Charlie was also deeply involved in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts throughout the years where he loved to cook for the troop, district and council. He headed up leadership training and was active in the Sagamore Service Troop until the end. He earned the Distinguished Commissioner and the Silver Beaver awards, among others.

Whether at work or play, Charlie is remembered for his dedication, his sense of humor, and his willingness to help out wherever and whenever needed.