Obituary of Francis Gordon LaSorda

Francis "Frank" LasordaBorn: May 29 1929Windsor has just lost one of it"s most gifted Union Leaders " Francis "Frank" LaSorda. Frank was born on May 29 1929 and started his early career at Ford Motor Company in Windsor. He was hired at the Chrysler Windsor Assembly Plant in 1952. He started on the assembly line and advanced throughout the union ranks and ultimately became the President of UAW Local 444 in early 1977. He replaced his good friend Charlie Brooks after his tragic death. Frank was one of the early pioneers in advancing the benefits for auto workers that are the foundation of their pay and benefit packages today. He was a leading advocate in supporting the allocation of the original minivan production at the Windsor plant. Frank retired in 1982 following a 30-year career. Frank enjoyed many other accomplishments during his life. He was an avid sportsman and athlete. In his youth and teenage days, he enjoyed gymnastics, football, and track & field. But it was baseball where he excelled and even drew the attention of the major league scouts in his prime. He could throw a strike from center field and hit the ball even further. He played for many years with his dear friends throughout Windsor. Frank really enjoyed hunting, fishing, and mother nature at his cottage in northern Ontario with his family and friends. He will be joining the love of his life, wife Bernice "Bea" LaSorda who passed away in February 2010 and his son"s Jim, Tony, and Dan, along with many other family members who have all received him in heaven. He is survived by his children Joe LaSorda (Kim), Tom LaSorda (Doreen), Angela LaSorda, Anne Marie Bonneau (Rick), JoAnne LaSorda (Jim Nicodemo) and Fran LaSorda. Predeceased by his siblings Jim LaSorda and Betty Moscardelli. Reunited with parents Aurelio and Blanche LaSorda. Survived by sister in-law Sandy Rutyna (Jim), and daughter in law Joan LaSorda. Survived by 17 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Visitation at WINDSOR CHAPEL (Central Chapel) 1700 Tecumseh Rd. E. 519-253-7234 on Wednesday, September 12 from 2-4pm and 6-9pm with a funeral service at 8pm. Cremation to follow. A private inurnment will be held at a later date. In memory of Frank, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Windsor. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.windsorchapel.com.