Michael Casey

A lifetime Binghamton resident, Michael Eugene Casey, “Mike” (78) passed away on May 8th, following 10 months contending with lung cancer. Mike was predeceased by his parents- Dr Eugene James Casey and Rita Nash Casey, and Siblings- Cecelia Evans, Christine Casey and James Casey.

He is survived by his wife of over 49 years, Catherine Foley Casey, daughter and son-in-law Kate and Dave White (Austin, TX), son and daughter-in-law Mike and Denise Casey (Foxborough, MA), as well as 6 grandchildren: Madison White, Sean White, Aidan White, Rory Casey, Maeve Casey and Declan Casey, and siblings Dennis Casey and Angela Casey.

Dad’s interests included auto racing of all kinds. He was so very proud of his participation in winning a drag racing class championship at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the early 1970s. He never lost touch with his love of drag racing - competing in later life at local events wherever he could in his classic, although rusty, 1980s Firebird. How proud he looked showing off his massive large white helmet- Dad had a rather large head- to his grandchildren. He also remained in touch with his flare for driving in general with his unique- some might call it wacky- two footed driving technique even while operating every one of his rides after the 70s, all of which were all cars with automatic transmissions.

Many knew Dad from his work managing the Main St. Kwik Fill in Binghamton for more than 30 years. His early bird nature suited him well as he arrived to open the station every weekday, and many a Saturday, before 6:00 AM. Seldom did he take a vacation...Although trying at times, ultimately, his kindness and humanity made him a good fit as he engaged in the day to day banter with regular customers he knew for years.

Dad enjoyed his time away from work in various ways including pastimes such as the planting of a small farm of a garden including corn, string beans, carrots, tomatoes, green peppers and strawberries. There were always some roses too just like his father before him… Our home on the south side of Binghamton stood out for the expanse of produce created, as well as the child labor involved in weeding and managing bugs of various sizes and colors. 

He was an exceptional cook who always made sure we were all fed with rather tasty well balanced meals full of love, something I am sure both Kate and Mike (Jr.) admit they miss a great deal. Standing at the stove dipping bread in his slowly simmering marinara sauce was one of Mike’s pastimes. All of his grandchildren knew a big, hearty breakfast would always await them when they visited and loved this time spent with him at the breakfast table.

Dad enjoyed telling what can only be described as ‘Dad jokes’...Classics include solid gold hits such as,  “If this rain keeps up it won’t come down.” He also loved telling repetitious stories of his children’s conquering of all athletic feats imaginable. To him, being present to watch his kids play sports was about as good as it gets.

Dad loved Cathy, Kate, and Mike so much. And his fascination with his grandchildren had always been readily apparent. His grandchildren knew his love of seeing them smile and laugh.

His kindness, ‘jokes’, and laughter will be missed. However, we are so thankful for the time we had to spend with him in this earth bound life.

 A Funeral Mass will be held at St Paul’s Church, Monday, July 26th at 10:00 AM. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pan Mass Challenge which Mike and Denise participate in annually. 100% of proceeds go toward life saving cancer research at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Donations can be made at: www. pmc.org/mc0624

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