Eugene “EK” Hassan, age 87, of New Castle, PA, passed away comfortably on November 19, 2018.

Eugene was born in New Castle, PA to Josephine and Ahmed Hassan on December 15, 1930.

During his life he had a thirst for knowledge and a passion for many things including music, sports, reading, writing, movies, his culture, the US Navy and most importantly family. He married the love of his life, Patti Santangelo on February 24, 1955 and she preceded him in death on August 10, 1979.

He was a scholar and received college degrees from Geneva College and New York University. Eugene was a high school teacher for over 30 years in Nyack, New York and loved his job. He was a successful sports coach at the high school level including baseball, football, swimming and golf. He was voted New York state baseball coach of the year in 1971. Eugene was a proud veteran and served in the Korean War in the US Navy. Eugene was a published author and poet who enjoyed documenting his families experiences.

Eugene is survived by his children, Kimberly Lanton, Kelly Hasson Padula and Eugene Hassan; his brothers, Dr. James C. Hassan and Albert L. Hassan; sister-in-law, Concetta Lattavo, five grandchildren, two step grandchildren, three great grandchildren, seven step great grandchildren and many nieces and one nephew.

In addition to his parents and wife, Eugene is preceded in death by a sister, Bette Abate, brother-in-law, Dom Abate and brothers, Chuck Hassan and Robert Hassan.

EK was a unique man who will be forever loved and cherished.

Visitation will be Wednesday, 11:00AM to 2:00PM at the Ed and Don DeCarbo Funeral Home 941 S. Mill St. The New Castle Area Honor Guard will perform military rites on Wednesday at the funeral home at 2:00PM prior to the service that will follow. Burial will be at Valley View Cemetery.

The family of Eugene would like to extend our sincere thanks to Rhodes Estates and Kindred Hospice for their caring support.