Basso

Lawrence "Corky" Robert Basso, 81, of Slippery Rock died at 2:45 a.m. Wednesday at his residence.

Born in San Francisco, Feb. 6, 1929, he was the son of Isidore Basso and Clorinda Prevedello.

He married Melsena Melody Preciado on April 1, 1967. She died May 24, 2008.

Mr. Basso retired in 1983 a "legend" from the Underground Mine in Boyers, where he did investigative work for the Civil Service Commission.

After retiring, he served on Slippery Rock Borough Council, worked part-time maintenance at the Slippery Rock Community Park and was an integral part of his wife's day care business along with Crafts by Melsena.

He was a master storyteller, regaling family and friends with stories of his life, sometimes crossing the boundaries of fact and fiction. Despite facing many unique challenges, Larry always opened his heart and home to all.

Surviving are three sons, Robert Lawrence Basso of San Francisco, Daniel Isidoro (wife, Maura) Basso of New Wilmington and James Michael Basso of Fripp Island, S.C.; and two daughters, Michelle Melody Basso of Fripp Island, S.C., and Tiffany Meredith Basso of Slippery Rock. He was "Nonno" to three grandchildren, Kaylee Elizabeth Basso and Tammy Kathleen Basso of San Francisco, and Sophia Melsena Basso of New Wilmington. Also surviving are two nieces, Linda and Geraldine Baldassarre.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a sister, Inez Baldassarre.

<B>BASSO</B> — Friends of Lawrence "Corky" Robert Basso, who died Wednesday, May 12, 2010, will be received from 2 p.m. until time of the service at 4 p.m. Sunday at the <B>Smith Funeral Home</B>, 421 New Castle St., Slippery Rock. A memorial service will follow at 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home with Pastor Ron Nagel, of New Life Baptist Church, New Wilmington, presiding.Memorial contributions may be made to VITAS Charitable Fund Hospice, 235 Alpha Drive, Suite 101, Pittsburgh, PA 15238; or to the humane society of choice.