Michael Casey Sr.

MICHAEL CASEY SR.

Cedar Rapids

Michael Allan Casey Sr. died peacefully at home on Thursday, March 26, 2015, due to lung cancer caused by smoking. Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 1, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids, by the Rev. David O'Connor. Visitation: 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids, with a rosary and time of sharing beginning at 7 p.m.

Survivors include his wife, Christine; two sons whom he was extremely proud of, Michael Allan Casey Jr. (his mother, Rebecca Wright Grant) and Joshua Allan Casey (his mother, Lisa McGowan Casey); stepsons, Clayton (Jessica Thornton) Schuety and Chad Schuety; brothers, Robert (Connie) Casey, Larry (Susan) Casey and Blair (Sheila) Casey; sisters, Mary Lou Santore and Bonnie (Benny) Vasquez; sister-in-law, Sherry Casey; grand-children, Emelia, Layna and Kooper; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Mike was born Jan. 29, 1957, in Cedar Rapids, the son of James and Flora (Lawrence) Casey. He was baptized in 1957 and confirmed in 1967 at Immaculate Conception. Mike attended Immaculate Conception Elementary School, McKinley Middle School and Washington High School. On Aug. 1, 2009, he married Christine Koopman Schuety in Cedar Rapids. Mike started Casey Remodeling from scratch many years ago and was recently transitioning the business to own and operate rental properties. He was proud of his work and the many projects he accomplished.

He will be remembered by his family and friends for his love of vibrant colors and his keen sense of fashion. He was well known for his St. Patrick's Day outfits he wore for the parade, as well as his collection of hats and ties. Mike lived life on his own terms and always focused on doing the right thing. His kind and generous spirit was seen in his ability to make everyone feel better about them-selves. Mike always made sure the kids had a small toy or Tootsie Roll to make them smile.

Mike also had a love for live music, avidly sup-porting local musicians, especially jazz and blues. On Sundays, he would play the tambourine at jam sessions with his friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Michelle Casey; brother, William Casey; and nephews, Billy Ray Casey and Bob Santore.

Mike volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul Society and he requested memorials be directed to the organization: St. Vincent de Paul Society, 928 Seventh St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.

In 2014, he was diagnosed with lung cancer and chose to focus on the quality of his last days and months. He freely shared his cancer story with everyone and felt that if his story convinced one person to quit smoking then it was worth it to share. Even in death, his focus was on those he loved.

Please share you support and memories with Mike's family on his celebration wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under obituaries.