Dolores (Basso) Cortello

Dolores “Dee” Basso Cortello, age 73, beloved wife of Sabatino “Sam” Cortello, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Sunday, August 30, 2015 at St. Vincent’s Medical Center.  Dee was born in Bridgeport on February 9, 1942, to the late Michael and Ann (Mayernick) Basso, and graduated from Central High School, where she met her sweetheart and soulmate Sam Cortello. They were married in September 1962 and have shared 53 amazing years together, filled with laughter, joy and family. She was a proud lifelong resident of Bridgeport, involved in her church, the Bridgeport Federation of Democratic Women and Union secretary for AFSCME Local 1522. Dee worked for the Bridgeport Board of Education from 1980 until her retirement in 2011.  During the years Dee was honored in many ways for her dedication and service;  In 2004 for her Outstanding Service in the AFSCME Labor movement, 2013 she and her family for Lifetime of Commitment and Service, and 2008 with the St. Augustine’s Medal of Outstanding Service.

Dee is survived by her husband, Sabatino “Sam” Cortello, her 3 children; Susan Cortello, Louis Cortello and wife Diane,  and Tina Cortello.  Dee was extremely proud of her 5 unique and talented grandchildren whom she adored, Elizabeth and Frank Jr. Cuccaro, Louie Jr and Anthony Cortello and Zachary Braca. Marriage joined them together but love made them family. Dee has 3 adoring brothers; Michael, Lawrence and Stephen Basso and his wife Diane; in-laws: Edith and Joseph Cascio, Lucy and Tony Duva, Linda Cortello and Sandra Spadaccino. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousin, Godchildren and two great aunts, Pauline Mayernick  and Elsa Cortello.  

Thank you for all for the prayers offered during Dee’s illness and afterwards. We felt surrounded by love and support.  A special thanks to Dr. Berard and the staff at St. Vincent’s - 9 South, for the care, support and dedication given to our mother and extended family. She was grateful for every moment in her life and the people who surrounded her.

Dee’s family will receive friends from 4 – 8 PM on Thursday, September 3, at Cyril Mullins Funeral Home, 399 White Plains Rd, Trumbull.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM on Friday, September 4 at St. Patrick’s Church , 170 Thompson Street, Bridgeport, with burial to follow at Mountain Grove Cemetery. 

Dee was a vivacious and colorful person which could be seen any day. Her favorite color was purple, any shade. In her honor, wear something purple or that lights up. Any donations can be made to: Swim Across the Sound, c/o St Vincent’s Med Ctr, 2800 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT 06606 (Give.Stvincents.org)  

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