Thomas F. Cassen

Memorial services for Thomas Cassen, 75, Lawrence, will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, March 17, 2023, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Thomas passed away on Monday, March 13, 2023, at LMH Health.

Thomas was born on March 14, 1947, in Burt, Iowa the son of Glenn Woodrow and Fae Evelyn (Fisher) Cassen.

He was an entrepreneur over many years with businesses in specialty welding, automotive body work, fabrication and owning a Dodge dealership.  He was a professional racer with NHRA for decades in Stock and Super Stock along with being nationally known for his carburetors and racing components. He served his family and community in law enforcement along with military service in the Army. He was passionate about all things automotive, Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, and firearms. He was a teacher and a mentor to many in his fields of expertise.

He married Janet Sue Hannah on December 30, 1994, in Julesburg, Colorado. She survives of the home.  He was preceded in death by his first wife, Sherrill (Todd) Cassen and stepson, Heath Todd.

Other survivors include his daughter, Tommie Marie Cassen, Lawrence; his son, Erik Dalton Cassen and wife Shawna of Topeka, KS; grandson, Glenn Cassen; stepdaughters, Heather Gavitt of Parker, CO and Heidi Lowry of Brush, CO, and many step-grandchildren.

The family suggests memorials in Thomas’ name to the Alzheimer’s Association and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

8 Condolences

  1. Joan Gagnon on March 16, 2023 at 11:21 am

    Dear Sue and family,

    I did not spend a lot of time with Tom, but it was always evident how much he loved his wife and children. He had such a joyful smile and
    anyone who visited him would know how much he loved cars, motorcycles and dogs. He will be greatly missed by all who had the
    pleasure of meeting him. May God bless each of you with loving memories of a wonderful man.



  2. Charlie Wurm on March 16, 2023 at 2:10 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss, Janet. However, I believe Tom is in a better place. May he rest in peace.



  3. Julia Maret on March 16, 2023 at 2:20 pm

    I am so sorry for your loss. Erik, I did not know that your dad was such a presence in the car/racing world. That was wonderful for me to learn. My sincere condolences to you and your whole family.



  4. Kathryn Carlson Gannon on March 16, 2023 at 9:44 pm

    Sue and family,
    Condolences to you. May you find peace in God’s grace.



  5. Patricia Forch on March 17, 2023 at 5:36 pm

    Sue, Heather and Heidi,
    Please accept my condolences for your loss. This kind of loss leaves a hole in your heart, as it did with me. Rely on friends and family and the Lord for healing.



  6. Star on March 18, 2023 at 12:36 pm

    My sympathy to you Sue, and Tommie. It’s been many years since I met Tom. I enjoyed his orneriness!



  7. Susan Harrison on March 21, 2023 at 3:16 pm

    Sue, Tom was so fun to be around. I am so very sorry for your loss. I think of you every day. I know Tom is now at peace and I am happy for that. Love you friend!



  8. Jennifer K on March 25, 2023 at 7:16 pm

    Sue, I am sorry to hear about Tom. It was evident from how you spoke about him that he was a great guy. Hugs to you and Tommie.



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