Paul M Cassayre

Paul Maurice Cassayre

April 5, 1930 - Oct. 21, 2023

Paul Cassayre passed away peacefully at home on October 21, 2023.

Paul was born and raised in Napa, attending St. John the Baptist Catholic Elementary School, and Napa High School. In 1948, Paul and his cousin Jack Zeller headed to Santa Clara University where he studied engineering and graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. After graduation Paul was drafted into the Army where he served his country until his honorable discharge in 1956.

During his time in the Army he was introduced to a beautiful Napa local, Frances Ulrich. They were married July 21, 1956. Their life together was spent raising their three daughters, Mary, Anne, and Diane, the MAD Cassayre girls. Early on in their married life, Paul, with Fran's support decided to go out on his own and start his own engineering firm. He studied and obtained additional licenses in civil and structural engineering, and eventually, Cassayre Engineering expanded to include Paul's brother Jim Cassayre and Mike Forni.

In early 1970, these three intrepid engineers also decided to start a winery. Cassayre-Forni Cellars was born, and produced delicious wines till it was sold in 1986.

Paul worked into his 80's as a structural engineer, doing work on numerous local projects including many wineries. He loved to sing, act and dance, and was respected and loved by everyone who knew him. He was a quiet, patient, honest, and hardworking man. Paul honored God above all.

He is survived by daughters: Mary Miroglio, Anne Sullivan, and Diane Cassayre; sons-in-law: Bruce Miroglio, and Brian Sullivan; 12 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers and sister, and their spouses: Bruce and Betty Cassayre, Jim and Carolyn Cassayre, and Bruce and Mary MacLean.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Fran Cassayre; parents, Louis and Frances Cassayre; and granddaughter, Valerie Sullivan.

A funeral in his honor is scheduled on Friday, November 17, 2023, at St Apollinaris Catholic Church, 3700 Lassen St, Napa, CA. Rosary will be held 10:30 a.m., with Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Reception immediately following at the St. Apollinaris Hall. A burial will be held at Tulocay Cemetery following the reception.

In lieu of flowers, Paul would prefer donations to go to St. Vincent de Paul or Collabria (Providence) Hospice.

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