William "Bill" E. Kassis

On November 8, 2015, William "Bill" Kassis passed away peacefully at home at the age of 93, after living a life full of love, family, and adventure. He was born in Williston, North Dakota to Eli and Elizabeth Kassis. He was the oldest of eight children. In 1937, the family moved to Sacramento where Bill attended Grant High School. After graduation, Bill enlisted to serve his country as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, where he saw action in North Africa and Italy. After the war, he returned home and for many years was manager for several of the Kassis family Stop N Shop markets. While at a CYO dance in the basement of the Cathedral, he met his future wife, Gail Janicke. They were married April 18, 1953, and were inseparable for 62 years. They were blessed with six children and 13 "grandpa's loves," their beloved grandchildren. Bill joined Equitable Life Assurance Society as an agent in 1966, and in 1983 he was inducted into the Equitable Hall of Fame where he continued to work until the age of 86. Bill was an active member of the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and the American Field Service organizations. Bill and Gail's family hosted exchange students from all over the world. World travelers, Bill and Gail were proud members of the Travelers Century Club. They visited 118 countries and every continent. Supporter of the Diocese of Sacramento for many years, he demonstrated commitment to his faith as a founding member of St. Anthony Parish. Bill earned the 4th Degree Life Member of the Knights of Columbus and was active in the Sacramento Serra Club for many years. While never shy with his opinion, he was even less guarded with his heart. He loved his family deeply, relishing the moments when we all could be together. Bill is survived by Gail, the love of his life, and his six children and their families: Diane (Bob) Jessica and Derek, Judy (Scott) Sandy and Zack, Christopher (Kristen) Michelle and Courtney, Brian (Kari) Mackenzie, Hayden (d. 1992), and Mason, Shelley (Rich) Adam and Ryan, Mark (Renee) Tish and Kara. Bill loved his family, his church, and the sun, and the rain, and the apple seeds. His open heart and loving spirit will be missed. A memorial mass will be held in Sacramento at St. Anthony Parish, 660 Florin Road, at 1:30 p.m. November 20, 2015, with reception to follow at the Parish Hall.