Mark A. Badamo

of Gainesville, FL passed away July 9, 2014 at North Florida Regional Medical Center. He was born December 11, 1950 in Quincy, IL to William and Ruth Badamo. He attended the American Legion's Boys State while his grandfather, Tony Badamo was the Commander for the American Legion Department of Illinois. He graduated from Quincy High School in 1969 and was an Eagle Scout. Mr. Badamo worked for Southwest Bell Telephone Company in Kansas City, MO. He served in the US Army in Germany from 1970 to 1972. He moved to Florida in 1974, first to New Port Richey and later to Bradenton, FL where he started working for General Telephone. Mr. Badamo retired from Verizon in 2003 and contracted with them until 2009. He moved to Gainesville from North Port, FL and while in North Port he was Commander of American Legion Post 254 and also Commander of Amvets 312 where is now a life member. Among the many organizations of which is currently a member are the American Legion Post 16, Squadron 16 of American Legion Post 16, Voiture 1388 (40/8) Gainesville, Men's Auxiliary to VFW Post 2811, Elks Lodge 990, Gainesville and Disabled American Veterans. His hobby was antique cars of which he had restored over 30 in the last 30 years. He had over 100 credits as a National Judge with the Antique Automobile Club of America. Mark is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 35 years, Carolyn. He is also survived by his brothers, Gary Badamo (Debbie) of Orlando, FL; Alex Badamo (Kathy) of Freehold, NJ; step children, Susan Zimmermann of Sarasota, FL; Douglas Liptrot of Crystal Lake, IL, Linda Adams of Sarasota, FL and Robert Liptrot of Bradenton, FL; and five grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2014 from 2:00-4:00 PM at Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL. Post everlasting and celebration to follow at 5:00 PM at American Legion Post 16, 4701 NW 6th Street, Gainesville. Interment will be Monday, July 14, 2014 at 12:00 Noon in the North Meadow Lawn Cemetery, New Port Richey, FL. If you would like to make a donation, please send to Post 16, 4701 NW 6th Street, Gainesville, FL. Arrangements are in the care of Forest Meadows Funeral Home (352)378-2528.

Mark A. Badamo

July 12, 2014