ROSLYN, Pennsylvania (11 Apr 2008) — Family, friends and colleagues expressed their admiration for a deputy fire marshal and dive instructor who died while scuba diving in Bonaire. Richard V. Scaffidi, 50, of Roslyn, died April 1 while scuba diving with Buddy Dive Resort. Authorities in Bonaire declined comment on the fatal scuba diving accident and there was no mention of the tragedy in local print media including the Bonaire Reporter. Scaffidi was well-known and respected for his service to the community. For 21 years, he served as lieutenant and captain of the Roslyn Fire Company and was involved in outreach programs to local elementary schools. In addition to organizing various community events including the Fourth of July parade, Roslyn Christmas Tree Event and the Night Out in Abington, Scaffidi founded the swift water rescue program after flooding in the area in 1996. Retired from the U.S. Navy as AMH1 in 1998, he taught classses at Bucks County Community College and served as hazardous materials battalion chief. "If you looked up 'give the shirt off of your back,' there would be a picture of Rich in the dictionary," said Fire Marshal Ken Clark. As a scuba diving instructor with training in CPR and first aid, Scaffidi taught many people to scuba dive including his daughter Angela. "I was certified at 18 after I begged him to," Angela said, "but my mom said she wouldn't do it unless she had gills...he was the greatest man I ever knew and will be very sorely missed in the township." | | In addition to daughter Angela, Scaffidi is survived by his wife of 26 years, Linda. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 777 Penn Center Boulevard, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15235; or to the American Diabetes Association, 150 Monument Road, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORKSCUBA FORUMDISCUSS THIS TOPIC - Dive in and have your say at Scuba Forum |
