Public Employee Press

Local 1070 officer Thomas DeRosa dies

Thomas Michael DeRosa could have been enjoying his retirement years relaxing in the sunshine of Florida or Arizona.

Instead, at 71, he was still an active member of Court, County and Dept. of Probation Employees Local 1070, chairing the Court Clericals Chapter, serving on the Executive Board and chairing the Safety and Health Committee.

During a July 14 meeting at union headquarters with Local President Cliff Koppelman and Local Treasurer Steven Schwartz, DeRosa suddenly collapsed. Schwartz called for an ambulance while Koppelman and Local 1320 President James Tucciarelli attempted to resuscitate him. Rushed to St.Vincent’s Hospital, DeRosa was revived and treated. He remained hospitalized until July 30, when he died.

“Tom had the ability to connect with everyone and would never forget your name,” said Koppelman of the veteran union leader. “He was always there for you if you needed him.”

His children, Margaret and Tommy, his former wife Joan, his brother, Frank, and sister-in-law Susan and other relatives survive DeRosa.