William M. "Bill" Cassidy age 86 of Belvidere passed away Saturday February 17, 2007 at O.S.F. St. Anthony Medical Center. William was born November 18, 1920 in Bristol Connecticut to Michael and Elizabeth (Driscoll) Cassidy. He attended school in Connecticut and later married the love of his life Beatrice Cordray on December 17, 1945. They were married for 61 years. He moved to Belvidere where he worked for the Chrysler Corporation as a sheet metal worker for over 20 years. William served in the Army during WWII and was also a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). William was also a member of the VFW and UAW. William could often be seen puttering in the yard and in his garage, a hobby he loved. He also loved to fish and spend time with his wife and family. William had a cabin where he spent much of his time during the summers. William loved to play games with the family and was notorious for playing tricks. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. William is survived by his loving wife Beatrice Cassidy; loving children; Kathy (Arnie) Winnie, Cindy (Scott) Sauberlich, Robert (Terrie) Cassidy and son-in-law Max Gardner; cherished grandchildren; Shawn and Jeff Gardner, Catherine Haseneder, Nicole and Michael Cassidy, Hollie and Karrie Dyer, Todd and Erin Winnie; adoring great-grandchildren; Jacob, Paige, Jack, and Hannah Gardner, Makayla, and Colin Winnie, along with many nieces and nephews. William was preceded in death by his parents, son Michael (deceased in infancy), daughter Gayle (on June 25, 2005) and 3 sisters. The family wishes to thank Dr. Prabahakar and the caring staff of O.S.F. St. Anthony Medical Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society in Bill's name.