Richard Hull Gildersleeve Bassford

May His Memory

Be Eternal

Richard “Dick” Bassford, 80, died April 25. He was born December 23, 1931, in Greenport, N.Y.

His daughter Sheryl Ann (Bassford) Fatse, and husband Michael, of Sandy Hook, two grandchildren and three siblings survive Mr Bassford.

Mr Bassford was a lineman for the Long Island Lighting Co. after high school, and then entered the United States Navy where he served in the Korean War. During his four years of service he received both the Korean War Medal and the Good Conduct and National Defense Award. He also was selected as a recruit instructor for the Navy reserves.

He taught industrial arts at Bellport High School in New York, and after earning his master’s degree he was appointed chairperson of the guidance department. He passionately coached soccer and golf and inspired and assisted countless students in fulfilling their postgraduate dreams. He retired after 30 years, first to North Carolina, and in 1999 to Venice Fla., where he spent nine happy years with his love, Fay Dreishpoon.

Mr Bassford continued to enjoy golf and bowling well into his retirement and also developed a talent for watercolor painting and sea glass jewelry making.

“We will miss you beyond words,” said family members.

A memorial service is scheduled at Ewing Funeral Home, 140 East Venice Avenue, Venice, Fla., at 10 am, Saturday, May 5. A celebration of his life will be held on Long Island later this summer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Bellport Golf Team, c/o Coach Jeff Johnsen, 144 Old Stump Road, Brookhaven NY 11719, a college scholarship fund being established in his name. Checks may be made payable to Bellport Golf Team, memo RGB Memorial Scholarship.

The Newtown Bee        May 4, 2012