John Casey

POLAND - Funeral services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel, officiated by Pastor Fred Schrock, for Mr. John "Jack" Casey, 86, who died Wednesday evening at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Casey was born on Nov. 15, 1929, in Youngstown, son of John and Mynetta (Allcook) Casey, and was cared for by his grandparents, John and Sarah "Sadie" (Watkins) Allcook.

John graduated from East High School. He later served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, and was the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, Occupational Medal from Japan, Korean Service Medal, and Combat Infantry Badge. After his honorable discharge on May 20, 1952, Jack began his career working on the railroad. He retired from the railroad after working for New York Central, Penn Central, and Conrail Railroads.

Jack enjoyed painting, exercising, walking through Poland Woods with his canine companion, Herman, and good friend, Ann. He also enjoyed playing pool, gambling, and watching horse racing. He lived by the motto "never played Bingo."

Jack leaves behind his daughters, Jody (Doug) Greene of Edinburg, Pa., Dorie (Terry) Gilkey and Jackie (Greg) Wachenschwanz of Athens; son Thomas (Martha) Gilbride of Columbus; grandchildren Cody and Casey Shatto, Terry and Dana Gilkey, Aaron, Mark, and Kate Gilbride, Meredith, and John Webb, Cory, Jeremy, and Kala Wachenschwanz; great-grandchildren Mason, Tess, Rory, Stewart, and Brayden; and special friends, Nancy French, Ann Kliness and Devera Bonica.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Norma Jean Pedaline Casey.

Family and friends may call Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the funeral home.

Interment will take place at Poland Riverside Cemetery, with military honors provided by the great men of the Ellsworth VFW.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Angels for Animals, 4750 W. South Range Road, Canfield, OH 44406.

Please visit www.higgins-reardon.com to view this tribute and send condolences.