Rochelle June Casserd

Rochelle Casserd passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Rochelle—known to many as “Shelli”—was the devoted wife of the late Fredrick Casserd and a cherished mother to Susan Casserd; John and Janice Casserd; and the late Robert Casserd (z”l). She was a proud grandmother to Jeff Casserd and Allie Goodman, and Jennifer and Neil Hinnant; a loving great-grandmother to Chloe Casserd; and a beloved sister to Sandra Vidgoff, Bill Taraday, and the late Linda Haugen (z”l) and Joyce Mesher (z”l).

Rochelle was born on July 8, 1932, to Dr. William and Birdye Wienir. She attended Garfield High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Washington.

In August 1954, she married the love of her life, Fredrick Casserd, and together they shared more than 70 wonderful years of marriage. They built a beautiful life together, raising their family on Mercer Island, later living in downtown Bellevue for 15 years, and eventually making their home at Aegis Living on Mercer Island for the past seven years.

Rochelle worked as a dental hygienist during the early years of her marriage before dedicating herself to raising her children as a full-time mother. Once her children were grown, she returned to school and discovered a new passion in black-and-white photography, with a special love for portraiture.

She was a gifted photographer who captured family, friends, and clients with remarkable warmth and artistic vision.

Among her proudest accomplishments was the publication of the book Let Me Hear Your Voice: Portraits of Aging Immigrant Jews (University of Washington Press, 1982), for which Rochelle served as photographer alongside two writers. The book received the Governor’s Award as one of the ten outstanding books published in Washington State in 1982.

After Fred’s retirement in 1994, they enjoyed many happy years together, especially cherishing time with their grandchildren, Jeff and Jennifer. They were overjoyed to attend both of their weddings in 2022. Rochelle adored her great-granddaughter Chloe, and one of the highlights of each day was looking at Chloe’s newest photos on her phone.

Rochelle spent the final two weeks of her life at Overlake Hospital, surrounded by family. During that time, she shared treasured memories of her childhood and reflected lovingly on her early years with those closest to her.

As Gandhi beautifully wrote:

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.”

Rochelle will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rochelle’s memory may be made to Temple De Hirsch Sinai, Kline Galland Home, Jewish Family Service, or the Washington State Jewish Historical Society.

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