James S. Cascio

James S. Cascio, affectionately known as Jim (and “Cass” as he signed his paintings), passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. Born on December 7, 1940 in Elizabeth, NJ, he was the son of the late James and Dorothy Cascio. Jim was a beloved, larger than life figure who touched the lives of many with his generosity and magnetic presence.

Jim grew up in Cranford and Mountainside, NJ, before establishing his home in Hunterdon County where he resided for the past 53 years. He served proudly in the United States National Guard in the 1960s after graduating from Nichols College in Dudley, MA. He went on to own Cassways Trucking, a tri-state tractor trailer company based in Garwood, NJ building a family legacy.

A man of many talents, Jim was an artistic soul who became a skilled painter in oil, watercolor and acrylics. He had a gift for capturing the essence of life in the area, becoming known for his renderings of farm animals and local landscapes. Some can be found hanging in restaurants in the Lambertville area, many of which were also immortalized by his paintbrush.

Jim’s love of animals extended beyond the canvas. He could often be seen in the company of his dogs with whom he was inseparable. He enjoyed sharing stories about the Spinoni breed and his dogs in particular. He also loved horses and shared a passion for equestrian sports with his son, Stacy, and was a well known fixture at local horse shows.

An avid gardener, Jim grew his own produce and transformed his harvests into delicious meals. Not only was he a skilled cook, but also a consummate host. His holiday table was always bountiful to be shared with friends (old and new) and family alike, creating lasting memories for all who gathered.

Jim was a devoted family man. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Noel Reisdorf, and first wife, Tracy (Gruman) Cascio. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Sally (Swenson) Cascio, whom he married on January 3, 1987. He was a loving father to his son, Stacy J. Cascio, and step-father to Ingrid Reisner and Erik Reisner. He was also a cherished grandfather to Tristen Cascio and Aiden Cascio, as well as step-grandfather to Anabelle Reisner and Madeline Reisner, He will be remembered fondly by his niece, Rachael. Jim will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life service will take place at the family's discretion in the fall. Burial in Rosemont Cemetery, Route 519, Rosemont, NJ was private.

For a tax deductible memorial contribution in memory of James Cascio, checks may be made payable to LPHSA, Inc. (Lake Placid Horse Shows) and mailed to 5514 Cascade Road, Lake Placid, NY 12946. Federal ID#82-5074078. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit Jim's memorial page and guestbook below at www.holcombefisher.com.