RICHARD BASOA

BASOA, Richard, a beloved father and U.S. Navy Korean War veteran, passed away October 15, 2011. Richard was a hard working father who loved to tinker around the house, installing whatever and maintaining his yard and garden. He always worked hard at many different jobs to provide for his family. He retired from the New York City Department of Corrections in 1982, after 20 years of service. He was a union delegate and rose through the ranks to become union president in 1977. It was a dream come true and quite an accomplishment for a kid from South Brooklyn. One of his greatest accomplishments was to turn around a money losing equity fund (millions) and make it solvent within two years. A true leader who "opened the books," for the hiring of hundreds of new correction officers, he retired after his 20 years of service in correction. He then went to work for the New York City off track betting corporation for 13 years, leaving there as a security supervisor. He volunteered his time to fix homes for folks who fell on hard times. It was the greatest feeling in the world seeing their smile. He served four years in the Navy during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion Post 1083, VFW Post 9592, as well as VFW Post 4 in New York. He became a fourth degree Knight of Columbus. Richard survived by his wife, Joan; four daughters; and several grandchildren, who were all greatly loved. A wake and funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at St. Marks the Evangelist Catholic Church, 9724 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa FL 33647.