Yes I am completely OCD when it comes to bike maintenance. I have a 16yr old bike that is essentially in brand new condition on the original chain (still within spec), not because it doesn't get ridden but because I do a quick clean/floss/wipe/relube after every ride. It never gets to the point where I need to degrease my components.

Don't get me wrong, the cassette didn't just fall off the free hub. I was flossing the biggest cog from the back while applying pressure towards the front. So you had forward pressure in addition to the cog turning. It completely locks into place. You just don't need tools to remove it. You would understand if you saw what I was trying to describe.