Trending
James E. Casel, 75, of Jamestown, passed away Sunday, August 9th 2026.
A lifelong resident of the area, he was born December 31, 1950 in Jamestown, NY a son of the late Joseph J. and Betty E. Kaufeld Casel.
James was a 1969 graduate of Jamestown High School and a veteran of the Army National Guard of Pennsylvania serving from November 1970 until October 1975 during the Vietnam war.
James grew up working alongside his parents and siblings at Big Joe's, the family business his father founded in Warren, PA. He helped build the original site as a boy and later spent his entire career there, serving generations of loyal customers heád known since childhood. His work took him far beyond Warren -- he traveled all over the country, from New York City to Mexico, sourcing truckloads of goods to bring back to the market. At the market, he became known for the little touches that kept people coming back: fresh rotisserie chickens cooked every summer day, cheese samples cut for anyone who stopped by, and homemade dill pickles made right there at the market.
Outside of work, James enjoyed the simple things. He liked taking drives around the lake and had a lifelong interest in cars. He also enjoyed antiquing and spent much of his free time restoring old pieces. He will be remembered as a hardworking man who enjoyed the open road and had a knack for bringing old things back to life.
Surviving are Heidi L. VerMilyea Casel with whom he was married for the past 37 years along with three children, Christopher James Casel of Jamestown, NY, Lyn E. (Timothy) Casel Leshney of Columbia, SC, and JoAnn E. (Matthew) Casel Misiaszek of Jamestown, NY; three grandchildren, Katelyn Casel, Clark Misiaszek and Helen Misiaszek; two sisters, Joette J. Casel of Jamestown, NY and Joy H. Ellinor of Virginia Beach, VA; and one brother, Jess R. Casel of Jamestown, NY; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph "Big Joe" Casel who died February 23, 2015; his mother, Betty E. Casel who died April 11, 2010; his brother, Joseph W. Casel November 18, 2017; and his sister JoAnn B. Casel January 20, 2023.
Per James' instruction, no service or visitation will be observed.
To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.lindfuneralhome.com.