Carmine John Bua was born in Brooklyn, New York on September 10, 1938. He passed away on June 16, 2020, in San Diego. He grew up in an Italian neighborhood, living in a one-bedroom apartment with his parents and younger brother. He often shared fond memories of his humble beginnings and playing stick ball in the streets of Brooklyn.
An excellent student, he graduated from Fort Hamilton High School and City College of New York where he was Cadet Colonel of the ROTC Pershing Rifles. He graduated with a BME in 1959. After graduation he served two years in the U.S. Army as a 1st. Lieutenant and as a Major in the Army Reserves from 1962 to 1968. He continued his education after leaving the Army, earning MME and MBA degrees from Stevens Institute. In 1964 he moved to San Diego and worked for Rohr in Chula Vista. He attended law school at night at USD and graduated with a JD Degree in 1968.
After passing the bar exam he began his law career in private practice specializing in corporate, business and securities law. He was active in various community and business activities which included Director, First Western Bank, Chairman of the San Diego Draft Board, President of the Pacific Beach Lions Club, Trustee on the San Diego Community College Board, volunteer tutor for READ San Diego, Arbitrator with the American Arbitration Association, Judge pro tem San Diego Superior Court. He was a proud member of The CCNY National Society of Pershing Rifles.
Carmine met his future wife Susan during law school and they were married in 1966. They resided in Pacific Beach where they raised three children - Michele, Mark and Monica. His greatest pride and source of happiness was his family.
To describe Carmine would be a challenge - he lit up a room with his outgoing personality and keen interest in everyone he met. Upon meeting someone for the first time, he would pepper them with questions about their lives and find out every possible detail. He loved telling jokes and making people happy - even at his own expense. He was often prone to having “fluke” accidents which he always turned into a funny story. People loved Carmine and he returned the favor!
His many hobbies included golf, tennis, country western dancing, skiing, ballroom dancing, “Jeopardy,” shoot ‘em up movies, “The Godfather” and reading books on history. He and Susan enjoyed many wonderful travel adventures the world over. Carmine especially enjoyed their many cruises together.
In 2010 Carmine suffered a massive stroke which left him unable to talk, walk, and completely paralyzed on his right side. He dealt with this devastating event with dignity and acceptance until the end. We thank the entire staff at The Nazareth House for their loving care, and friends too numerous to mention who visited throughout his confinement.
He leaves behind his wife Susan, son Mark, daughters Michele (Christian Golden), Monica (Francisco Levine), 5 grandchildren - Fiona, Daniela, Lucas, Estela and Mia, and brother Salvatore and his wife Kathryn.
A private family funeral will be held at St. Brigid’s Catholic Church in Pacific Beach, with a Celebration of Life gathering at a future date.
We take comfort in knowing that you are in a better place, Carmine, enjoying a perfect round of golf and a fine Cabernet! Rest in peace.
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