Obituary of Walter Cassidy

Walter Joseph Cassidy II

October 21, 1959 – May 13, 2019

Walter J. Cassidy II, a lifelong resident of Westport, passed away of natural causes on Tuesday, May 13, 2019.

The son of the late Melvin E. Cassidy and Harriet Freeland Cassidy, Mr. Cassidy was born in Norwalk on October 21, 1959. He is survived by a sister, Maryhelen Szilagyi, of Bridgeport, and a brother, Ed Cassidy, of Alexandria, Va.  Although he never had children of his own, he was a devoted uncle to his nephew, David Szilagyi, and great nephew, “D.J.” Szilagyi. In addtition to his parents he was predeceased by a brother-in-law George Szilagyi.

“Wally” or “Walt,” as he was known to friends and family, attended St. Luke School, Staples High School Class of 1977 and then attended Southern Connecticut State University. Following college, he worked for Oxford Health in telecommunications and information technology, and later took a series of jobs closer to home in order to assist his ailing mother.Wally loved drivng a taxi for Saugatuck Taxi Service and would give anyone who was interested a tour of "his" Westport. 

Wally Cassidy was active in local softball leagues for several decades until knee injuries forced him to stop playing. It was heartbreaking to him when he could no longer play, but he remained an enthusiastic supporter of his teammates. He loved football and baseball and was a diehard and eternally hopeful fan of the Miami Dolphins and Baltimore Orioles. In his spare time Wally also enjoyed discussing politics and current affairs with a diverse group of friends from all walks of life.

Wally had a huge heart and would do anything to help someone out. Friend or stranger, it didn't matter. Family mattered to him more than anything else. If you wanted to make him happy, just give him a card. He didn't care about things. Wally was a true friend to all who knew him and would literally give you the shirt of his back if you needed it. While he never had kids, Wally always enjoyed being around them because he really was a kid at heart. His goal was to make sure every child he came in contact with was safe and happy. There was a strong spiritual side to Wally, his belief that God would make things right never waivered. 

The family will receive visitors at Lesko & Polke Funeral Home, 1209 Post Road in Fairfield Center from 4-7 pm on Thursday, May 16, 2019  followed by a brief memorial service at 7 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. If it's one that helps children, Wally would be most appreciative. 

To order flowers online, for travel directions, or to sign his guest register, please visit www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com