Howard Wayne Cassidy

Howard was born in Portsmouth, Ohio on July 29, 1958 to Helen Rowlands. He was a graduate of Portsmouth West High School and The Ohio State University. He met the love of his life in 1993 at Red, White and Boom. They were married just over a year later on October 22, 1994. He devoted himself to Rane and her girls, and would become the proudest pappy ever in 2000. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren do what they loved, be it cheerleading, tennis, dance, golf, or soccer. Howard never met a stranger. He had a way of making every person he met feel loved and appreciated.

He was preceded in death by his father, Howard A. Cassidy; and in-laws, Cecil & Jane Coates. He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Rane; his mother, Helen Rowlands; daughters, Crystal (Jason) Parrish, and Tiffany (David) Gibson; his 7 little Buckeyes, Courtney, Kaylie, Cooper, Makala, Conner, Cannon, and Isabelle; step brothers, Steve (Brad) Rowlands, Dave (Peg) Rowlands; nephews, Dwayne Beverly, and Daniel Rowlands; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 8th at Church of Messiah United Methodist, 51 N. State Street, Westerville, Ohio. Family and friends may call from 9-11am, followed by a memorial service at 11am. Immediately following the service, a light lunch reception will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF.org), in hopes for a cure for Type 1 Diabetes.

Howard was an avid OSU fan. Please join the family in wearing your favorite OSU gear.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the Venice first responders, staff of Venice Regional Bayfront Hospital, Squad 22 of Reedy Creek Fire Department, the cast members and security of Walt Disney World Resorts, Advent Health in Celebration, FL, Dr. Ryan Holbrook, DMD and staff, and Eagle Scout Steve.

A celebration of life service will be held in Venice, FL at a later date.