Battle Creek Central High School Alumni
Battle Creek, Michigan (MI)
Harry A. DeMaso
Former member of the Michigan legislature[5]
What is Harry A. DeMaso known for?
Harry A. DeMaso was an American politician, known for his significant contributions to state politics in Michigan. Born as Aristide Augustino DeMaso on February 24, 1921, in Battle Creek, Michigan, DeMaso embarked on a political career that spanned over three decades.
The son of Italian immigrants from Pieve di Cadore, Harry grew up in Battle Creek and attended the local Battle Creek Central High School. His educational journey led him to the Argubright College of Business where he graduated and later served as an accounting instructor. His association with the college didn’t end there, as he later held the position of vice president and member of the board of trustees.
Before stepping into politics, DeMaso served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II as a drill instructor from 1943 to 1945. Following the war, he worked as an insurance office manager until he decided to venture into politics.
DeMaso's political journey began in 1952 as the Battle Creek Township Supervisor, a position he held for 13 years. Later, he served in the Michigan House of Representatives (1957–1966) and the Michigan Senate (1967–1986). In his tenure at the Senate, DeMaso held various important positions and even served as Michigan's Acting Governor during the 1984 Democratic National Convention.
DeMaso was a critical sponsor of Michigan's first income tax in 1967 under Governor George Romney. In 1983, amidst a recession and declining tax revenue, he was the only Republican to vote for a controversial income tax hike proposed by then-Governor James Blanchard.
Beyond his roles in government, DeMaso was known for his efforts in economic revitalization. He strongly promoted Battle Creek's Fort Custer Industrial Park in the 1970s and 1980s and played a key role in attracting new industries from Japan and Germany, bringing many new jobs to Battle Creek. DeMaso passed away on January 9, 2015, in East Lansing, Michigan, leaving behind a remarkable political legacy.