Richard A. Sofio

Richard A. Sofio Lansing Richard A. Sofio, a former resident of Bessemer, MI passed away February 28, 2009, at the age of 62 in Lansing, MI where he resided for the past 12 years. Rick was born March 5, 1946, in Bessemer to the late Joseph and Virginia Sofio. Rick graduated from A.D. Johnston High School, Gogebic Community College and Northern Michigan University having obtained his B.S. and M.Ed. He also completed numerous graduate credits at Michigan State University. Rick dedicated his life to serving others as an instructor of Political Science for 17 years at A.D. Johnston High School in Bessemer and as a football and track coach. Rick continued his teaching for several years at Gogebic Community College as an instructor. He also served as a School Board Member, County Commissioner (14 years), Citizens Mental Health Advisory Council, Governor's Air Service Task Force, a member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church, and as an elected official in the Michigan House of Representatives (2 terms) in District 110. Following his teaching and political careers in Bessemer, Rick returned to Lansing, MI. Rick loved to cook Italian meals, read, garden, and enjoy the company of his friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Virginia (Allen) Sofio, and his brother, Joseph Sofio. He is survived by his sons, Tony (Jaime) Sofio of Coon Rapids, MN; Nick (Ferne) Sofio of Prior Lake, MN; his daughter Cindy (Sam) Reade of Tacoma, WA; one grand-daughter, Lily; his sister-in-law, Lora Sofio; and one nephew, Michael Sofio. In accordance with Rick's wishes, his cremation has taken place. Mass will be held Saturday, March 7 at 11 a.m. at St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Bessemer, MI. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. at the church. Memorials may be made in Rick's loving memory to the Bessemer Historical Society.