William Gomez "Memo" Basurto

Passed peacefully on March 11, 2011 at home in Healdsburg, with his loving family by his side. Born in Tucson AZ, to Concha and Chepe. He leaves behind his adored wife, Rosella, of 55 years, his children Yolanda (George Dogali), Richard (Angela), Sylvester (Teresa), 11 grandchildren, 81/2 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Survived by his brothers, David and Raul, and sisters, Belen Miranda and Viola Ahumada of Tucson, and Eva Novella of Healdsburg. Preceded in death by his son William Jr. "Dubbie" Basurto, and brothers Jose and Carlos Basurto. He came to California in 1947 with his family, and he attended local schools before deciding to join the Army. After being honorably discharged, he married his Geyserville neighbor, Rosella, and they moved to San Francisco, where he graduated from Molar Barber College and then began cutting hair. Memo worked at different shops before starting his business, Memo's Original Barbershop in 1960, which he owned until his retirement in 2009. Memo took great pride in supporting his family, and he partnered with his brothers in the 8 Ball Bar and Pool Hall on the Plaza, a meat market in the old Packers and Canners building, and he worked for ten years at Hewlett Packard. He was a member of the Latin American Club in the 60's, was in the Active Army and Reserves for 20 years, and was Past Post Commander with The American Legion, Post 111. He also enjoyed coaching boxing and took several youths to the Golden Gloves. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Memo, to St. John's Church or The Alzheimer's Association. The family would like to thank Dr. Andolsen and his staff, the special care given by his grandson, Fabian Vasquez, as well as Sandy Ferguson, Joselyn, Norma and Ezeqiel of Heartland Hospice. Friends are invited to attend visitation after 3:00 p.m. Tuesday March 15, 2011 with a Rosary at 5:00 p.m. at St. John's Catholic Church Healdsburg. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's. Interment will be at Oakmound Cemetery Healdsburg. Arrangements by Fred Young Funeral Home, Cloverdale 707-894-2540