Obituary of George Douglas Cassens

George Douglas “Doug” Cassens of Punta Gorda, FL passed away peacefully on May 4, 2021. He was 74 years old. Doug was born in Battle Creek, MI on August 9, 1946 to George and Ruby (nee Dilley) Cassens. He went on to graduate from Western Michigan University with a BA in Economics. Doug eventually moved to the Detroit area in the 80’s where he spent much of his time recording, playing local shows and raising his kids. Later in life, he would often fly from Michigan to Florida to relax with friends and enjoy the warmer weather. He eventually relocated from Troy, MI to Punta Gorda in 2013. Throughout his life, Doug had a strong appreciation and passion for music, especially smooth Jazz. He was an exceptionally talented saxophone player who enjoyed a 50+ year career as a professional musician performing at concerts, weddings and other venues. Whether it was for audiences of over 10,000 or for small restaurants, Doug loved his work. He worked with several bands, notably the popular Me and Dem Guys in the 60’s and 70’s in Michigan. Doug’s albums included Running Out of Time with John Mickie, Angels Among Us featuring Kirk Whalum, and Spirit with The Doug Cassens Band. Doug was also featured on music with Bob Seger. Doug often had the good fortune to play for pleasure in his leisure time with an array of other gifted artists, some of which are very well known and many who became lifelong friends. Doug enjoyed spending time in the studio and recording music. Other interests included watching Sci-Fi movies and reading about space or astrophysics, but most of all, Doug valued the time he spent with his family and friends. Everyone who knew him enjoyed his musical knowledge and thoughtful discussions. As a Catholic, Doug felt blessed to be able to unify his affection for music with his adoration of the Church. He was a devoted parishioner, choir musician and member of the Knights of Columbus at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Punta Gorda. Doug was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ruby Cassens and brother, Michael Cassens. He will be forever missed by his dearly loved significant other of over 8 years, Joanne Daubenspeck; cherished children, Jon (Ashley Heidemann) Cassens, George Cassens and Regina (Kevin) Takai; and treasured grandchildren, Peter Cassens, Elliot Cassens, Julian Cassens and Zen Takai. Visitation will take place on Thursday, May 6, 2021 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home, 9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, May 7 at 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 211 W. Charlotte Avenue, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. Interment will immediately follow at Charlotte Memorial Cemetery, 9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Doug’s memory to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at www.pancan.org/ways-to-give.