Francis L. Cassidy, age 86, a life time resident of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, May 4, 2008, due to complications of pneumonia. He was born October 24, 1921 in Big Rapids, to Francis Edward and Dora (Roddy) Cassidy. He married Lillian L. Jacobs on May 20, 1950, in Detroit and was a member of St. Mary's Parrish. Fran worked for Binney Auto-Parts for almost 50 years until his retirement in 1989. Francis was honorably discharged from the United States Army where he was a Staff Sergeant during World War II, having served in New Guinea, the Philippines and Luzon. He was a member of the Roger Heights V.F.W. Post #4102 and a past member of the Big Rapids Elks Lodge #974. He also volunteered as a driver for the Fourth Avenue Church meals program. He is survived by a son, Tony Cassidy of Aurora, CO, a daughter, Terry (Sam) Ventocilla of Ithaca,; Grandchildren: Courtney (Brett) Sokoloski, Haslett, Jason (Clarisse) Beck, Westland, Lindsay (Dan) Sokoloski, Grand Rapids, Adam (Brittannee) Beck, Big Rapids, Martin, Michael and Anthony Ventocilla, Ithaca, Butch (Megan) Cassidy, Aurora, CO, Jennifer (Ping) Cassidy, Aurora, CO; Great-grandchildren, Angelina, Peyton and Tedden; Nieces, Sally (Pat) Manke of Arcadia and Cathy (Bob) Vaas of Virginia Beach, VA; great nephew, Jason Manke, Arcadia and great niece, Jennifer Manke-McNaulty, VA. Francis was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Dora, his wife Lillian Jacobs-Cassidy, a brother, Joe Cassidy and a sister-in-law, Marian (Joe) Cassidy. A Christian Burial Mass for Francis will take place on Saturday, May 10th, at 11:00am, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Big Rapids; Father Lam T. Le will officiate. The family will greet friends on Friday evening, May 9th, at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids from 6:00 to 8:00 pm with a Rosary beginning at 7:00pm. Memorial contributions in Francis' name may be made to the Roger Heights V.F.W., Auxiliary #4102.