Wade Robert Bascom

Wade Robert Bascom, 89, of Leavittsburg, died Monday, February 1, 2010 at Forum Health - Trumbull Memorial Hospital. He was born January 20, 1921 in Youngstown, the son of Wade Lyman and Nancy (Duffield) Bascom.

Mr. Bascom was a graduate of Leavittsburg High School and the United States Naval Academy. He began his career as a patrol pilot and flew the first patrol mission of the Korean War. He later became a test pilot and a fighter pilot, a flight accident investigator, worked at the Pentagon buying bombs and bullets for the Navy during the Vietnam War, and helped to usher in the age of the Internet by tracking supply information for the Navy on computer.

After 33 years in the Navy, achieving the rank of Captain, Mr. Bascom returned to the family farm in Leavittsburg and worked 28 years for the Trumbull County Soil and Water Conservation District. He also served as president of the Farm Bureau. He enjoyed sailing and gentleman farming.

Surviving are his children: Barbara (Michael) Clifford and Robert Duffield Bascom, both of Leavittsburg, and William Stephens (Tracy) Bascom of Belmont, N.H.; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a sister, Patricia (Tom) Abernathy. Preceding him in death are his parents; his wife, Kathryn Stephens Bascom, whom he married June 8, 1944 and who died March 14, 1995; and a sister, Barbara Bascom.

Services are private. At his request, cremation is taking place. In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made to the Trumbull County Soil and Water District, 520 W. Main St., Suite 3, Cortland, Ohio 44410.

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland & Son Funeral Services Co., 271 N. Park Ave., Warren, Ohio 44481. Please visit www.mcfarlandfuneral.com to view this obituary and send condolences.