Basil Cafferty Obituary

In Loving Memory; B. Leo Cafferty of Corrales passed away June 20, 2024 at age 96. He was born September 8, 1927 to Peter and Mary Cafferty in Marshfield, Wisconsin. Leo grew up during the Great Depression as a farm boy, the second youngest of 8 children. The trials of the period would influence him for the rest of his life. During the depths of the depression the bright spot that gave hope for the future was a radio, which connected the family to the world, Leo was intensely interested in figuring out how it worked. Leo’s education included a one room schoolhouse, St John’s Catholic School, Baraboo schools, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison where Leo earned a mechanical engineering degree in 1952. After working as an engineer for Shell, Leo was drafted into the army during the Korean war. Leo married Rosemary Dirienzo in 1954 and later settled in Corrales, where they designed, built and landscaped a home and raised four children (Maureen, Lee, Colleen, and Jeaneen).

After divorcing, Leo married Lucille Larrabee (Hafertepe) in 1977 and she with son John joined the family. Lucy and Leo would be together for 32 years until Lucy passed away in 2008.

Leo’s book of memoirs is called “Tales of Farm and Family” and was published for his 90th Birthday.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents, all his siblings, and his two wives. He is survived by his children: Maureen Cafferty NM, Lee (Susan) Cafferty Arkansas, Colleen Cafferty Arkansas, Jeaneen Cafferty California, and John Larrabee Colorado; grandchildren: Danielle Sedillo-Cafferty, Shawn Cafferty-Lueck, Tanner Larrabee, and friend Lucille McIntire, Leo’s dance partner and travel companion since 2010.

A memorial service will be September 9, 2024 at 2pm, Daniel’s Funeral Home, Sara Chapel. 

In lieu of flowers please donate to “IETF” International Essential Tremor Foundation or The Nature Conservancy.