A popular Mimico pharmacist who served generations of families in our community has died.

Bill Kassel, died on February 22 surrounded by his family. He was 74.

Kassel, was the owner of the Kassel’s Pharmacy, on Royal York Rd., for 46 years, according to his family.

The pharmacy has been a fixture in Mimico since 1948 when Max Kassel opened its doors. Bill joined his father’s business in 1970 after graduating from the University of Toronto.

Max’s dream was to ‘create a closely-knit store that really cared about the health and well-being of their customers.’ And he did since he was once named Druggist of the Year, for his outstanding work.

“Back then it was a neighbourhood pharmacy that provided the necessities needed for everyday life,” according to the Kassel’s Pharmacy website.

They said then deliveries were made by bicycle and people came from miles around to obtain their prescriptions and advice on health and wellness issues.

“As the neighbourhood grew, so did the pharmacy,” according to the family, adding they never forget that they are there to serve their customers.

Kassel’s daughter, Dana Bookman, shared the news of her dad’s death to his many customers and friends on social media.

Bookman said her dad had been battling cancer for a year.

“Our family lost its heart today,” she wrote.

His family said Kassel was ‘beloved by all who knew him for his sense of humour, joy and kindness.’

He was also a noted sailor, philanthropist and ‘friend to everyone he met,’ they said.

“Bill was beloved by all who knew him for his sense of humour, joy and kindness.”

He was the beloved husband of Carol, father and father-in-law of Adam and Jennifer Bookman, and Dana Bookman and Conor O’Neil.

A family graveside service will be held on February 23. For a Zoom shiva visit https://calendar.x.ai/billkassel-shiva/15minutevisit. Memorial donations may be made to Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, Temmy Latner Palliative Care, or The Kassel Family Endowment Fund c/o United Jewish Appeal.

The community is already grieving the death of Natale Bozzo, founder of San Remo’s Bakery and Cafe, a block away from Kessel’s Pharmacy.