Leonard A. Basso

Leonard A. Basso age 100 of Massillon, passed away Friday, September 17, 2021 at Meadow Wind Health Care Center in Massillon, Ohio. Born in Foggia, Italy to the late Giovanni Rocco and Michela (Christiani) Basso, he was also preceded in death by his wife Rose (Rossi) Basso, and step-son Eugene Mercorelli. Leonard is survived by his daughter Neena (Brian) Miller, step-son Richard (Leila) Mercorelli, grandchildren Bethany (Tim) Ransone, Nicholas Dulaney (Alex Miller), step-grandchildren Louis (Tatiana) Mercorelli, Gina (Ernie) Diaz, Mike (Wendy) Mercorelli, Heather (Dick) Frase, and six step-great grandchildren. Leonard immigrated to America in May, 1938 and landed at Ellis Island to begin his journey to Canton, Ohio. As a member of America’s Greatest Generation, Leonard was an Army veteran of WWII, serving stateside as a Salvage Technician from Sept, 1942 through Oct, 1945. After an Honorable Discharge, he returned to Canton and spent 42 years in the Heat Treat Division of Republic Steel before retiring in 1983. Family and friends know that Leonard was funny (although usually not intentionally), determined (mostly to get his own way), and fiercely independent (living at home until nearly age 100!). He taught us all the meaning of hard work, spending wisely (although he always loved a good pair of Italian leather shoes or finely tailored suit), and the benefits of an optimistic outlook. Leonard’s grandchildren were the light of his life and he kept them endlessly entertained with his jewels of wisdom. He will live on through them far beyond his 100 years. We would like to thank the staff at the Canton VA, Meadow Wind Health Care Center and Crossroads Hospice for caring for our dad and grandpa through the years. In lieu of flowers, do what Leonard would do… grab yourself a good cup of coffee and a Stella D’oro cookie before heading out to spend the day working in the yard. A Memorial service will be held on Friday, October 15, 2021, 10:00 a.m. at Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum Chapel.

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