Remembering BAC Members Lost to COVID-19
As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across North America, our BAC brothers and sisters are among the casualties. It is important for us to work together during this crisis to prevent further deaths and remember those who we lost because of the coronavirus.
This list includes those deaths we have currently learned of. If you aware of additional BAC members we should include on this list, please send details to askbac@bacweb.org and we will add them to the list.
Francesco Abate
Francesco Abate, a 22-year member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on April 24, 2020 at the age of 62. Born in Santa Margherita di Belice, Agrigento, Sicily, Brother Abate immigrated to the United States in 1980. A stone mason by trade, he was a resident of Howard Beach, NY. He is survived by his wife Dina and his daughters Maria, Katy, and Jessica.
Joseph Q. Alston
Joseph Q. Alston, a 54-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on April 1, 2020, a resident of Irvington, New Jersey. He was 76-years old.
Born in North Carolina, Brother Alston learned the trade there and then moved to Philadelphia in 1965 and joined BAC Local 1-PA. He was drafted in 1966 and fought in the Vietnam War. In 1968, he was honorably discharged and then returned to the trade. In 1971, Brother Alston moved to New York City and joined then Local 34-NY there. He worked for McNally and McNally, Inc. for 30 years, eventually becoming a foreman. One of the projects that he supervised won the BAC Craft Award Best Brick Project of the Year in 1985. In 2001, Brother Alston became Apprenticeship and Training Instructor with Local 1-NY and continued in that capacity until his retirement in 2014. After retirement, Brother Alston continued to assist at the training center on a part-time basis until his death. “Joe was a good friend and a man who loved his family, his work, and his union,” says IU Executive Vice-President Jeremiah Sullivan, Jr., “I believe teaching was Joe’s calling; he had a way of connecting with his students. He was proud that he had the opportunity to pass on the skills and knowledge he acquired throughout his career to future generations of craftworkers.”
Brother Alston is survived by his wife Joyce, a daughter, and a son.
Frank Argila
Frank Argila, a 60-year Gold Card Member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on March 13, 2021. A bricklayer by trade, Brother Argila resided in North Babylon, NY for 44 years and was a volunteer fire fighter there. In 1993, Brother Argila co-founded Triple A Masonry and was known for serving as a mentor for many apprentices over the years. He retired in 2004 and he and his wife Darleen moved to Plant City, Florida.
Brother Argila is survived by his wife; son Frank (April); son Anthony (Donna); daughter Lori (Rick); son Chris; five grandchildren Amanda, Ryan, Alyssa, Kayla, and Anthony; sister Jean; and brothers Jack and Buddy.
Walter Awdey
Walter Awdey, a 68-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 2-MI from Royal Oak, Michigan, passed away on April 12, 2020. Brother Awdey was a tilesetter by trade. He was 95-years old.
Charles P. Besenfelder
Charles P. Besenfelder, 51-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 5-OH and resident of North Ridgeville, Ohio, passed away on May 5, 2020. He was 71-years old, a bricklayer by trade. He was the son of the late Charles P. Besenfelder Sr. and Jean Graneggan Richardson.
Brother Besenfelder is survived by his wife of 46 years, Susan Gerrasch Besenfelder; his children David Besenfelder (Julie), Sarah Mahilo (Aaron), Ann Carroll (Matthew), Matthew Besenfelder (Shannon) and John Besenfelder; and eight grandchildren.
Joaquim F. Calcado
Joaquim Fernades Calcado, a 64-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on December 2, 2020 at the age of 92. Brother Calcado was born in Murtosa, Aveiro, Portugal in 1928 and arrived in the United States at the age of 19. Brother Calcado was a resident of Hicksville, New York and was a bricklayer by trade.
Brother Calcado was preceded in death by his wife Ana, his son John, and his brother John. He is survived by his son, Joaquim Jr.; his grandchildren James, Kevin, and Jaclyn; and his sister Maria Amélia Calcado-Farinhas.
Bobby Ray Cranford
Bobby Ray Cranford, a 36-year member of BAC Local 5-OK/AR/TX/NM, passed away October 16, 2021, at the age of 60. Born in Texas City, TX, he was the son of Leonard Cranford and Jacqueline Padgett. A Refractory Bricklayer by trade, Brother Cranford was a resident of Coldsprings, Texas. He is survived by his wife Sheila Jo Cranford.
James Lawrence Crockett
James Lawrence Crockett, a 54-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 8-IL, passed away on August 18, 2022, at the age of 82. A resident of Pittsfield, IL, Brother Crockett was a Cement Mason and Pointer, Cleaner, Caulker by trade. Born in Nebo, IL, he was the son of the late David and Hazel Brown Crockett. Brother Crockett joined the United States Navy in 1959. He served during the Cuban Blockade in 1962, received the Good Conduct Medal, and was honorably discharged in 1966. After the service, Brother Crockett began his masonry restoration apprenticeship in Oklahoma City, OK. He worked many years for Mid-Continental Restoration.
Brother Crockett was a very active member of Pittsfield Assembly of God and served as an usher, financial secretary, and Deacon on the church board. He was as a member of the Pittsfield American Legion Post 152.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Daniel James Crockett; siblings Tom Crockett, Charles Crockett, Joe Crockett, Lola Marie, Glen Crockett, Doris Crockett, Betty Phinney, Mary Marlow, Dick Crockett, Dave Crockett, and Dan Crockett; his in-laws, Claude and Irene Newman; brother-in-law Gerald Newman; and sisters-in-law Florence Richards Croxville and Nedra Williams.
Brother Crockett is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Nina Kay Newman; daughter Denise (Ron) Caldwell; son Duane (Rita) Crockett; grandchildren Stephanie Shireman, Matthew Crockett, David (Alex Menke) Crockett, Jacob (Nicole Brix) Crockett, Crystal Caldwell, and Erica (Jared) Parker; great grandchildren Elijah Palmer, Hadley Parker, Ivey Parker, and Benson Parker; brother-in-law Ronald Newman; sister-in-law Brenda Shipley; and numerous nieces and nephews.
William Cucchiarella
William” Willie” Cucchiarella, a 61-year Gold Card Member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on January 17, 2021. Brother Cucchiarella was born in the Bronx, the son of the late Margaret-Rose and John Cucchiarella. A resident of Yonkers, Brother Cucchiarella was originally a member of the former BAC Local 37-NY, was a bricklayer by trade, and worked as a foreman and a superintendent on many projects in the greater New York City area.
Brother Cucchiarella was a loving husband to his wife Linda (nee Martucci) and a devoted father to their son, William. He was a die-hard New York Yankees fan, an avid bowler, and loved doing crossword puzzles. Cucchiarella’s brothers John, Lucian, and Vincent are all bricklayers, and all are Gold Card Members of BAC Local 1-NY.
He is survived by his wife, his son, his brothers and their families, his Martucci in-laws, and many nieces and nephews.
Thomas E. Cunningham
Thomas E. Cunningham, a 56-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 4 NJ, passed away on December 29, 2021. A lifelong resident of Ridgefield Park, he was the son of late Frank and Anne Cunningham. He is survived by his brother Tim; his ex-wife Virginia; his daughters Stacey Gibbons (Tom) and Leigh Heuer (late Brian); and his grandchildren Ryan, Jack, Sean, Luke, and Mackenzie.
Brother Cunningham was an Army Ranger and proud US Veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a Bricklayer and Cement Mason by trade and worked alongside his father and brother for many years.
After retiring, he worked as crossing guard in his hometown. He enjoyed fishing down the Jersey shore, enjoying a cold Heineken at the local bar with family and friends, traveling to Atlantic City and Costa Rica, and rooting for the NY Giants.
Domenico Cusello
Domenico Cusello, a 23-year member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on May 11, 2021 at the age of 47. Born in East Patchogue Hamlet, New York, he was the son of Raffaele Cusello and Iolanda Antonina Tulino. Brother Cusello was a bricklayer by trade and a resident of Shirley, NY. He is survived by his wife Nancy Tietz Cusello.
Mario Dilullo
Mario Dilullo, a 51-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 8-OH and resident of Youngstown, Ohio, passed away on April 8, 2020. He was 83. Born in San Pietro Avellana (Province of Isernia, Molise), Italy to Oreste and Pasqualina (Colaizzi) DiIullo, Brother Dilullo immigrated to the United States in 1954. He worked for the A. P. O’Horo Company and later Hively Construction.
Brother Dilullo is survived by his wife of 53 years Pasqualina (Grieco); son Pasqualino (Patsy); son and daughter-in-law Mario and Barb (Shaffer); grandsons Mario and Dominic; sister Rosemarie (Vittorio) Quaranta; brothers Dr. Nino (Julie) DiIullo, Vito DiIullo, and Martino DiIullo; brothers-in-law Luigi (Gino) Grieco and Tommaso (Molly) Grieco; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Amico and sister-in-law Sophie.
James L. Dineen
James L. Dineen, a 69-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 2-NY/VT from Syracuse, New York, passed away April 2, 2020. A bricklayer and mason by trade, he was 85-years old. He was born in Syracuse to the late Lawrence and Olga Dineen. Brother Dineen was an avid outdoorsman, spending a lot of his time hunting and fishing. He is survived by his children, Debra (David) Bearup; Michael (Laurinda) Dineen, and Laurence (Mary Ellen) Dineen; sister, Mary Dineen; 8 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lorraine, on March 10, 2020.
Roberto R. Esteves
Roberto R. Esteves, a member of BAC Local 13 Nevada, passed away on August 22, 2021, at the age of 47. A resident of Las Vegas, Brother Esteves was a Finisher by trade.
Robert G. Falzano
Robert G. Falzano, a 47-year member of BAC Local 2-NY/VT, passed away on May 8, 2020.
A resident of Schenectady, Brother Falzano was born in Albany, New York, the son of the late Benedict and Lena Falzano.
A bricklayer and mason by trade, Brother Falzano served his apprenticeship and quickly worked his way up to mason foreman then masonry superintendent. Projects that he ran include the Greene County Correctional facility, the Off-Track Betting building in Schenectady, an armory in Utica, the housing at the Olympic Village in Lake Placid for the 1980 Olympics, as well as area schools and hospitals. A large part of his career was spent with GA Masonry and Colonie Masonry.
He is survived by his wife Elaine Falzano; two sons: Michael Robert (Mary) and Joseph Benedict; two granddaughters: Sarah Elizabeth and Ella Michele Falzano; brother, Michael Anthony (Deborah); sister, Marianne Maclutsky. Also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Charles Clifford Fox, Jr.
Charles “Buddy” Clifford Fox, Jr., a member of BAC Local 8-SE, passed away August 26, 2022, at the age of 75. A resident of Lincolnton, NC, Brother Fox was a Refractory Bricklayer by trade and worked many years for Virginia Carolina Refractory. Born in Lincoln County, he was a son of the late Charles Clifford Fox Sr. and Alma Deaton Fox. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Jerry Fox. He is survived by his wife Brenda Painter Fox; sons Chris Fox (Bridgette) of Lincolnton, Jeff Fox of Lincolnton, and Shane Fox; grandchildren Alex Fox, Tyler Fox, Devin Fox, Amber Shay, and Paizlee Fox; and his sister Vickie Byrd (Earnest).
Brother Fox was a veteran of the US Army and was a member of Westside Baptist Church in Maiden, NC.
Jose Fernandez
Jose Fernandez, a retired member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on April 21, 2020, at the age of 69. Brother Fernandez was a resident of Staten Island, NY, and a Pointer, Cleaner, Caulker by trade. He is survived by his wife, Maria Canosa Fernandez.
Aldo Ferrara
Aldo Ferrara, a retired 35-year member of BAC Local 1-MA/ME/NH/RI, passed away on January 28, 2021, at the age of 86. A resident of Saugus, MA, he was a Bricklayer by trade. Born in Benevento, Campania, Italy, he was the son the late Salvatore and Assunta Ferrara. Brother Ferrara is survived by his wife Joyce M. (Harrison) and children Reno, Elio, Aldo Jr., and Luciano; Tina Marie Galiatsatos, Richard and Lisa Galiatsatos, Michael P. Brann, Jr.; sister Livia Ferrara and Nicola Ferrara; and grandchildren Alec, Hailey, Jessica, Laura, Matthew, Melissa, Michael, Natasha, Nicholas, Sophia, and Vanessa.
Martin Henry Gallues
Martin Henry Gallues, a 35-year member of BAC Local 1-OR/WA/ID/MT, passed away on May 29, 2022, at the age of 69. He was born in Victorville, CA, and grew up in Reno, NV. Brother Gallues was preceded in death by his father, Henry Gallues. He is survived by his mother Marjorie; his wife Heidi; daughter Lisa Imdieke (Casey); son Anthony; sisters Denise (Bob Scott), Lisa Kinney (Steve), and Felis (Brett Moten); nieces Samantha Scott and Sophia Kinney; nephew Daniel Kinney; and longtime companion Leslie Lima. A Bricklayer by trade, Brother Gallues worked many years for Knight Material Technologies and did acid proofing work throughout the US and the world, including work in Australia, China, the Dominican Republic, England, South Africa, and Venezuela.
John C. Ghezzi, Jr.
John C Ghezzi, Jr., a 59-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 6 OH, passed away on November 17, 2022. Born in Canton, OH, he was the son of the late John C. Ghezzi, Sr., and Thelma Amadore. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Patricia Ghezzi (Erickson), his brother Ernest Ghezzi, and his granddaughter Tomi Ghezzi. He is survived by his children Charlene Parkinson (John), Rocco Ghezzi (Ronda), and Michael Ghezzi (Denise); six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; his brother Richard Ghezzi (Sheila); and his loving companion, Sherryl Dudek and her son, Jason Dudek (Kaci).
A Bricklayer by trade, Brother Ghezzi was a graduate of McKinley High School, Class of 1954. He enjoyed golf, playing cards and spending winters in South Florida.
Miroslaw Grochowski
Miroslaw Grochowski, an 11-year member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on April 4, 2020 at the age of 65. A resident of Ridgewood, New York, Brother Grochowski was a bricklayer by trade.
Gary Roger Johnson, Sr.
Gary Roger Johnson, Sr., a 52-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 8-SE, passed away on January 25, 2022, at the age of 82. Brother Johnson was a resident of Chesapeake, VA and was a Bricklayer by trade. He was preceded in death by his wife Grace M. Johnson. He is survived by his five children Gary II, Grace (Jon) Robbins, Gerald (Kimberly) Johnson, Gracie, and Gary III; his grandchildren Gerald Johnson, Kristal Robbins, Dakota Johnson, Shanna Tomazinis and her husband Freddy; great-grandchildren Ezra and Naomi Hoffman; and many other relatives and friends.
Lindsey Aron Jordan
Lindsey Aron Jordan, a 21-year member of BAC Local 7-KY from Ashland, Kentucky, passed away on March 31, 2020. He was 49-years old. A refractory bricklayer, Brother Jordan was working away from home in Detroit, Michigan when he became ill. To protect his family back home, he decided to self-quarantine there and succumbed to Covid-19 at the Henry Ford Medical Center in Detroit.
Brother Jordan is survived by his wife Amanda 'Mandy' Spradlin Jordan, his children Chase Jordan, Eric Jordan, Sarah Jordan, Brent 'Bub' Canterbury, Sierra O'Brien, Kayleigh Canterbury, and Madison Canterbury; a sister, Lisa Jordan; and seven grandchildren. He was the son Dora Jean Greene Jordan and the late Lindsey Jordan, Jr.
Gary M. Juenger
Gary M. Juenger, a 47-year member of BAC Local 1-MO, passed away on February 5, 2022, at the age of 67. A resident of Columbia, IL, Brother Juenger was a Bricklayer by trade. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Evelyn Juenger, nee Beczkala, and his father-in-law, James C. Barnes. He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Juenger, nee Barnes; three children, Marissa Juenger, Michael (Katherine) Juenger and Madelyne (fiancé, Spenser Deom) Juenger; two brothers, Steve (Joan) Juenger and Kevin (Melissa) Juenger; and mothers-in-law Patricia Barnes and Carol Barnes.
Brother Juenger was a member of Community Bible Study of St. Louis, MO and was very passionate about his kids’ sports, as a coach, mentor, and number one fan.
McMillan Kealohilani Kihamahana
McMillan Kihamahana, a 56-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 7-CO/WY, passed away on April 4, 2020 at the age of 78. A resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Brother Kihamahana was a bricklayer and stone mason.
Delano Kraus
Delano Kurt Kraus, a 70-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 1-WI, passed away on December 16, 2021, at the age of 87. A resident of La Crosse, WI, Brother Kraus was born in New Ulm, MN to the late Anton and Elsie (Kohnert) Kraus. He graduated from La Crosse Central High School and attended classes at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He served in the United States Navy from 1954 to 1960 and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.
A Bricklayer and Stone Mason by trade, Brother Kraus was originally self-employed then worked many years for Fowler & Hammer, Inc. He enjoyed golfing and was a member of Virg’s Golf League at the former Hillview Golf Course. He also enjoyed fishing and working in his garden.
In addition to his parents, Brother Kraus was preceded in death by his wife Carol, brothers Robert (Sylvia) Kraus and Milton (Shirley) Kraus, and his grandson Nathan Kraus.
He is survived by his sons Steven (Beth) Kraus, Todd (Michele) Kraus, and Jeffrey (Amie) Kraus; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Ronald G. Lechner
Ronald G. Lechner, a 56-year Gold Card Member of BAC Local 3-NY, passed away on January 10, 2021 at the age of 77. Brother Lechner was born in Buffalo, New York, the son of Herbert Lechner and Corinne Wicks. Both Lechner’s father and his grandfather Stephen Lechner were Gold Card Members of the former BAC Local 45-NY. In 1990, Brother Lechner became a Business Agent with Local 45-NY and went on to become the Director of the former Western New York Administrative District Council.
Brother Lechner is survived by his wife Elaine; his daughters Michelle (Gary) Kostek and Lisa (Jason) Brown; his grandchildren Gary Jr., Alex, Stephanie, and Parker; sisters Carol (late Robert) Wnuk and Linda Lechner; and nieces and nephews.
Richard "Dick" Maheux
Richard “Dick” Maheux, a 53-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 3-MA/ME/NH/RI, passed away on January 6, 2021, at the age of 77. Born in Lewiston, ME, Brother Maheux was a resident of Southwick, MA. He was preceded in death by his parents Simonne and Doria Maheux and his son David Maheux.
He is survived by his daughters, Laura Beckett and Angelena (Viner) Maheux; his brothers Raymond Maheux and Robert "Bobby" Maheux; his grandchildren Jessica, Tara, Ashley, Brian, DJ, and Tina; seven great-grandchildren; and his friend Barbra Daigle.
A Pointer, Cleaner, Caulker by trade, he worked many years for Superior Caulking and Waterproofing. Brother Maheux was an avid hunter and outdoorsman as well and enjoyed his hunting camp in New Sharon, ME.
Gary L. McCannon
Gary L. McCannon, a 55-year Gold Card member, passed away on May 16, 2021 at the age of 79. A resident of Andalusia, Illinois, Brother McCannon was a member of BAC Local 6-IL and was a bricklayer by trade. Born in Moline, Illinois, he was the son of the late Francis and Ethel (Tompkins) McCannon. He served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1969.
An avid outdoorsman, Brother McCannon- affectionately known as Hoot- loved to fish and hunt, worked a number of years as a commercial fisherman on the Mississippi River, and was a prolific gardener.
Brother McCannon is survived by his wife of 54 years , Glenda; daughters, Tabitha (Keith) Klundt, Tiffaney McCannon (Dan Witz), Tennesha Duyvejonck, and Tedra (Corey) Greer; grandchildren, Zachery (Brittni) and Matthew (Hannah) Klundt, Tristan, Tate, Teaghan, Ty Duyvejonck, Adison Greer, Mac and Sally Witz; great grandchildren, Evelynn, Rosalee, Theodor and Auora; brothers Jim (Janice), Art (Nancy), Russ (Sue); and several nieces and nephews.
Alfredo Meneses
Alfredo Meneses, a 13-year member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on April 10, 2020 at the age of 43. Born in Santiago Momoxpan, Cholula, Pueblo, Mexico, Brother Meneses immigrated to the United States over twenty years ago. A Pointer, Cleaner & Caulker by trade, he was a resident of Corona, NY. "Alfredo was a great human being, very cheerful and generous, he helped in whatever way he could," recalled his sister Maria del Carmen Meneses. He is survived by three children, five siblings, and several nephews.
Eldon L. Mills
Eldon L. Mills, a 56-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 9-PA, passed away on August 6, 2022, at the age of 83. A resident of Everett, PA, he was born in Waterfall, PA, a son of the late Theron and Sylvia (Black) Mills. A Bricklayer by trade, Brother Mills worked many years for L and L (Lawruk) Builders. He was preceded in death by his wife Audrey L. (Snyder) Mills, his sister Almeta McClain, and his brother Charles Robert Mills. He is survived by his children Stephanie (George) Taylor, Valerie Mills, and Stephen (Margaret) Mills; grandson Brody Lee Mills; and sister Helen Frey.
Brother Mills was a member of the First Christian Church in Everett as well as the Bedford Antique Auto Club and Everett Masonic Lodge F & AM 524.
Vittorio Di Minico
Vittorio “Victor” Di Minico, a 60-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 3-MA/ME/NH/RI, passed away on January 23, 2021, at the age of 89. The son of the late Angelo Di Minico and Carpinella Moccia, he was born in Melito Irpino, province of Avellino, Campania, Italy and came to the United States in 1948. A resident of Norfolk, MA, Brother Di Minico was a Tile Setter by trade. He was predeceased by his son Dean Di Minico, brothers Nick and Pat Di Minico, sister Caroline Di Minico Grasso, and nephew Robert Di Minico. He is survived by his wife Josephine Russo Di Minico, nephews Nick Di Minico and Angelo Grasso; and nieces Patricia Di Minico Belanger, Rita Hermann, Sabrina Di Minico, and Maria Grasso.
Gerard J. Nardone
Gerard J. Nardone, a 72-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 3-MA/ME/NH/RI, passed away on December 5, 2020, at the age of 92. A Plasterer by trade, Brother Nardone was a native and resident of Westerly RI. Son of the late John Nardone and Jesse Raffo Nardone, he was predeceased by his wife Catherine Ferreira, whom he married in 1951, and his two sisters, Marie Ames and Marguerite Sullivan. He is survived by his children Jacinta Nardone, John Nardone and wife Susan, and Gina Sutcliffe and husband Tom; brother-in-law John Ferreira and wife Susan; grandchildren Erik Nardone, Emily Sylvia, Dana Sutcliffe, and Christopher Sutcliffe; and great-grandson Edward James Sylvia III.
Brother Nardone joined the Army shortly after the Korean War and served 18 months, primarily in Japan, working in the Vehicle Repair group. Upon his return, he worked with his father’s plastering business, John Nardone and Son. He later worked for General Dynamics, eventually retiring from Pfizer in Groton, CT in 1990. He was a member of the Elks Lodge 678 and the Westerly Track Club from which he earned many awards as a master runner.
Miguel A. Pintado
Miguel A. Pintado, an 18-year member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on May 5, 2020 at the age of 61. A resident of Corona, New York, Brother Pintado was a bricklayer by trade.
Jeffrey R. Regan
Jeffrey R. Regan, a member of BAC Local 2-MI, passed away on November 25, 2021, at the age of 54. A resident of Lexington, MI, Brother Regan was a bricklayer by trade. He was the son of Charles Regan and Patricia (Szot) Regan.
Donald A. Rowan
Donald A. Rowan, a 59-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on December 11, 2020, at the age of 86. A resident of Manorville, NY, Brother Rowan was a Pointer, Cleaner, Caulker by trade. Brother Rowan is survived by his wife Frances.
Steven A. Sattler
Steven A. Sattler, a 26-year member of BAC Local 3-OH, passed away on December 10, 2021, at the age of 46. A Bricklayer by trade, Brother Sattler was a resident of Liberty Center, OH. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Peter and Dorothy Sattler and Sylvester and Helen Rita Neiling. He is survived by his parents Larry and Janet (Neiling) Sattler; wife Trisha (Herr) Sattler; children Chelsea and Janelle Sattler; siblings Diane (Matt) Hardy, Mark (Stephanie) Sattler, Dan (Tammy) Sattler; and father-in-law Michael Herr.
Brother Sattler was a 1994 graduate of Liberty Center High School and worked his entire career for Spartan Construction Company. He was a parishioner of St. Patrick Catholic Church and enjoyed hunting, farming, and routing for the Liberty Center Tigers, the Ohio State University Buckeyes, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Greg Scronce
Greg Scronce, a 29-year member of BAC Local 1-MO, passed away on February 10, 2022, at the age of 52. A resident of High Ridge, MO, Brother Scronce was a bricklayer by trade. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Scronce Sr. He is survived by his mother, Sandra (nee Francis) Klein; brother Ronnie (Melony) Scronce; sister Donna Klein Smith; niece Ashley (Tim) Ferder and nephew Jacob Scronce; great niece, Maggie Ferder; cousins Michael and Joni; along with numerous extended family and friends.
Brother Scronce enjoyed working and going fishing, was proud of his property, and enjoyed having family and friends over.
Hershell Slimmer, Jr.
Hershell Slimmer, Jr., a 53-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 5-NJ, passed away on November 24, 2021, at the age of 83.
Brother Slimmer was a US Navy veteran and served on the USS Independence (CV-62) aircraft carrier during the Vietnam War. Affectionately known as “Huck” or “Buddy,” Brother Slimmer was a life-long resident of Millville, NJ. He was a member of the Millville Elks Lodge 580, the American Legion Nabb-Leslie Post 82, and an original member of the Venatores Gunning Club. A Bricklayer, Cement Mason, and Plasterer by trade, Brother Slimmer was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, clamming, and crabbing.
Slimmer was pre-deceased by his beloved wife of 54 years, Luz, and is survived by sons Hershell "Buddy" Slimmer III (Amanda), Michael Slimmer (Stephanie), and Walter "Joe" Robinson; daughter Tina Slimmer; sister Loretta Dorothy Firus; long-time friend Christopher Sutherland; grandchildren Haley (Rashawn), Lindsey, Andrew, Morgan, Michael Jr., and Mikala; and great-grandchildren Elijah and Shyla.
Glenn Logan Smyers, Sr.
Glenn Logan Smyers, Sr., a life member of BAC Local 9 PA, passed away on May, 2020. Glenn was also a member of the American Legion Post 493 and an honorary lifetime member of Redbarn Sportsman’s Club Inc. You don’t have to look far to see one of his proud masonry projects that were constructed with perfection. He could be found on the greens of the Veteran of Foreign Wars golf resort or drinking coffee on the famous “patio” with loving family, friends, and always accompanied by lifelong neighbors Marcy and Ed Horchar. In Glenn’s younger days, he played and coached softball, bowled, hunted and fished.
See full obituary here.
Donald Charles Spinelli
Donald Charles Spinelli, a 66-year Gold Card member of Local 3-MA/ME/NH/RI, passed away on December 6, 2002, at the age of 86. Brother Spinelli was a Bricklayer by trade and lived in Las Vegas, NV in his retirement. Born in Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Tony Spinelli and Gertrude Lemur.
Henry B. Suwala
Henry B. Suwala, a 67-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 1 PA/DE, passed away on January 23, 2022, at the age of 89. Born in Philadelphia, he was a son of the late Benjamin and Clara (Pytlewska) Suwala. Brother Suwala was a Bricklayer by trade and a resident of Schwenksville, PA. He was predeceased by his wife Frances (Servido) Suwala and his siblings, Stanley Suwala and Delores Donahue. He is survived by his son Michael Suwala and his wife, Debora; daughter Lisa Lawrence and her husband, Samuel; and grandchildren Benjamin, Nicole, Jessica, and Samuel.
In his retirement, Brother Suwala enjoyed fishing and crabbing in Cape May, NJ, and spending time in Atlantic City.
Juan Gabriel Terrazas
Juan Gabriel Terrazas, an 18-year member of BAC Local 21-IL, passed away on September 4, 2021, at the age of 44. Born in Los Angeles, California, he was the son of Norberto Terrazas and Juana Pereda. Brother Terrazas was Tile Setter by trade and was a resident of Aurora, Illinois.
Heldder Villeda Turcios
Heldder Villeda Turcios, a 40-year member of BAC Local 13-Nevada, passed away on August 22, 2021, at the age of 63. Brother Turcios, a Tile Setter by trade, was a resident of Las Vegas and is survived by his wife Jacqueline and son Heldder.
Jose Rafael Ostorga-Ramirez
Jose Rafael Ostorga-Ramirez, a member of BAC Local 13-NV, passed away on June 11, 2020. A resident of Las Vegas, Brother Ostorga-Ramirez was a marble mason and tile setter by trade. He was 56-years old.
Thomas H. Ringeisen
Thomas H. Ringeisen, a 73-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on February 5, 2021 at the age of 96. A resident of Lindenhurst, New York, Brother Ringeisen was a bricklayer by trade.
Delbert Lee Smith, Jr.
Delbert “Del” Lee Smith, Jr., a member of BAC Local 5-OK/AR/TX/NM, passed away on December 4, 2020 at the age of 61. Born in Orange, Texas, Smith was the son of the late Delbert Lee Smith, Sr., and Margie Gay Johnson. A third-generation BAC member, Brother Smith was a refractory bricklayer by trade and worked over 40 years for J.T. Thorpe Company. Smith was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed photography, woodworking, and dancing to country and Cajun music.
He is survived by his wife Kimberly Smith; his children Jeremy Smith (Jennifer), Eric Smith (Kate), Justin Roberts, and Haley Mills (Steven); his brother David Smith and Gary Grueschow; his aunts, Joyce LeBlanc, Chris Evans, and Karen Corbett (Michael); his grandchildren Jordan, Jace, Jerin, Jillian, Walker, Colton, Livi, Allie, Maddie, Seth, Joshua, Jadon, Salynda, Zoey, Maleeah, Paige, Brooklyn, and Haven; his parents-in-law, Robert Williams (Janet) and Joy Hand (Billy); his cousins, Tamara, Dwain and Stacey; and his beloved pet, Peaches.
Angel B. Verdoza
Angel B. Verdoza, a 51-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 3-AZ/NM, passed away on March 1, 2021. He was born in 1937 in San Juan, Mexico to Rosalia Baeza and Agapito Veroza. A Cement Block Layer by trade, Brother Verdoza was a resident of Phoenix, AZ. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Manuela Verdoza; their six children, Sammy, Rose Emma, Rudy, Robert, Artur, and Yvonne; 20 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; and numerous great-great grandchildren.
Gaetano Zerenga
Gaetano Zerenga, a 58-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 1-NY, passed away on May 19, 2020, a resident of New York City. A bricklayer by trade, he was 89-years old.
Donald R. Zimmer
Donald R. “Donnie” Zimmer, a 64-year Gold Card member of BAC Local 3-NY, passed away on October 23, 2021. A resident of South Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Henry L. and Ruth D. (Fix) Zimmer. Brother Zimmer graduated from McKinley Vocational High School in 1957 and joined then-Local 45-NY at the age of 17 as an apprentice Bricklayer. In 1959, he participated in the National Bricklayer Apprentice Championship competition in San Francisco and was crowned National Champion. A Bricklayer, Cement Mason, Marble Mason, and Stone Mason by trade, Brother Zimmer worked on and supervised countless notable projects throughout the greater Western New York area and in Washington, DC, while also serving the Union’s JATC for many years as a brick and blueprint instructor.
Brother Zimmer is survived by his wife Geraldine J. (Manzella) Zimmer; daughters Renee G. Zimmer and Donna M. (Sean) Bulger; grandchildren Tyler (Melissa), Brent and Grey Barrie and Ashlyn Bulger; great-grandchildren Alison, Kaelyn, and Tristen Barrie; and brothers Henry L. (late Geri) Zimmer and Thomas (Ann) Zimmer. He was preceded in death by his brothers Richard (Joann) Zimmer and Arthur (Ethel) Zimmer.