Alan Cassman (December 13, 2013)

October 20, 1922 – December 19, 2013 Alan Cassman passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 19th, after suffering a stroke. 91 years old, he left us exactly as he would have wanted – surrounded by his family in his Westchester home, where he had lived for over half a century. Alan spent his childhood in Atlantic City, New Jersey where he developed a life-long love of the beach and riding the waves. An excellent student and athlete, he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania where he played varsity football and baseball. After entering the Army officer training corps during World War II, Alan trained at Fort Benning, Georgia and then was stationed in Korea. After the war, Alan attended law school at the University of Pennsylvania. During this time, he and Mary Ellen Gill became romantically involved. They married on October 15, 1948 and drove across the country to California. They landed in Los Angeles and never left. In 1951, they moved to Westchester. During the 1950’s and early 60’s Alan built a successful solo law practice. From 1965 to 1992, Alan practiced with Andrew Lachina. Despite a semi-retirement in 2003, Alan continued to practice law until his death. Alan was also devoted to a wide variety of civic activities, including the Westchester Family YMCA and the Airport Marina Counseling Service (both of which he helped to found), the Lions Club, the Community Concerts Association, and Little League. He served on numerous Boards of local charities and civic agencies. Alan’s commitment to his community and to society at large was exceeded only by his devotion to his family. Alan is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen, his three children – Ken, Joan and Ted — seven grandchildren, and two great-children. A Memorial Celebration Service will be held at the Westchester Family YMCA on Sunday, January 19, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome. The family asks that in lieu of flowers those wishing to make a contribution may donate to the Westchester Family YMCA or the Airport Marina Counseling Service in Alan’s honor. Links to those websites and more information about Alan and the Memorial Service can be found at: www.alancassman.com.