Colleagues and friends said that Carol Vasapolli was a dynamic woman who could light up any room she was in with her smile, her warmth and her energy.
Mrs. Vasapolli, executive vice president of River Works Credit Union in Lynn and a member of the Lynn Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, died on Jan. 29 after a brief illness.
At River Works offices on Western Avenue, co-workers and customers were stunned by her passing. They had kept in touch with Carol during her illness and were looking forward to her return and seeing the beautiful smile that symbolized her radiant, upbeat personality.
Maria Bazzi, chief executive officer of River Works Credit Union, worked with Mrs. Vasapolli on a daily basis after hiring her to a key position nine years ago. Bazzi said she was impressed by Carol’s strong background and extensive knowledge of operations in the credit union industry.
“When I first interviewed her, we just clicked,” recalled Bazzi. “We became partners at that moment. I knew that she was the right person to work side by side with me.”
Bazzi said Vasapolli immersed herself in all aspects of the credit union, and like other members of the staff, she exhibited professionalism and loyalty that maximized each customer’s banking experience.
“Carol gave 100 per cent dedication to her job and went above and beyond her responsibilities, even working from her home,” said Bazzi. “I never had to worry about her – I could always count on her to get the job done.”
Always meticulously attired, Carol had an outgoing personality that personalized her association with colleagues and customers.
“Carol had a bubbly personality that was also a strong personality,” said Bazzi. “The one thing we miss the most is her laughter. Carol loved life. She lived life to the fullest. She will definitely be missed by all of us.”
Phyllis Hurley, manager of the River Works branch office, said her professional relationship with Mrs. Vasapolli pre-dated her tenure at the Lynn credit union. They had also been colleagues at Metro Credit Union in Chelsea.
“Carol was my mentor, a dedicated, wonderful generous person – I miss her very much,” said Hurley. “She was so full of life, so full of energy. She could run circles around people. She was funny and had the most beautiful smile.”
At the Lynn Area Chamber of Commerce where Mrs. Vasapolli served on the board of directors, the remembrances of Carol were fond, but touched with the sadness of losing someone who affected so many lives in a positive way.
“Carol was a dynamic individual who had boundless energy,” said Leslie Gould, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce. “She had a positive spirit, was community-minded and a great friend. She was a wonderful person, a great cheerleader for this Chamber. She believed in Lynn and its business community and we will all miss her. We really loved her.”