Van Manuel Kassouni of Cascade, MI passed away peacefully November 23 after a long battle with many medical issues.
Van was born February 6th, 1963 to Sarkis Manuel and Olivette (Trevannion) Kassouni. Born in Jamestown, NY, he moved with his family to East Grand Rapids, MI where he graduated high school in 1981.
Van is survived by his wonderful wife, caregiver, and biggest advocate Lyubov (Luba ), his children he adored, Stefanie, Alexandra, and Arthur, his brothers Dicran ( Irina) and Armen (Kimberly) , and his sister-in-law Ann Kassouni. His larger family of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles extends around the globe. He is reunited in heaven with both parents and his brother Haig.
Van was an entrepreneur, inventor, and businessman of extraordinary talent. While getting his start in the family business, he was largely self-taught. There was nothing he wouldn’t take on. From starting his own business in molding and stamping, he expanded to own restaurants, manufacturing facilities, as well as property investment in areas of development long before they were recognized by the market. He held over 30 patents and was working on several more as illness began to take its toll. Van had a bigger than life personality and was loyal to a fault. Throughout his life he gave back and helped friends in need.
Van was an avid traveler. He and Luba traveled the world with their children. They had family trips to Europe, Russia, China, New Zeeland, and many warm islands in the winter months. When not traveling, Van was always trying something new. From acquiring antique steam tractors to teaching his son how to fish, he was always ready for a new adventure. Taken way too young, Van lived life to the fullest.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 4, at 1:00 pm at Cascade Christian Church, Pastor Jill Forton, officiating. There will be a visiting hour at the church from noon to 1:00 pm preceding the service. Masks are required. The service will be available to livestream from the church website (http://www.cascadechristian.com) in the Watch&Read section. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice.
One Response
Rest in peace, dear Van. We will always carry you in our hearts. You’ve had a short but incredibly colorful life. Your wishes and plans that were not intended to come true are now being continued by your children and Lyuba. Loving thoughts for you and your family.