Bob Bassett
Bassett, Robert Walter (Bob), 85, called home 8/23/25 at Suncoast Hospice, survived by Norma, beloved wife of 56 years, sisters Carol Hankel (AZ), Nancy Luiso (MT), nieces Laura and Nan.
Born in Chicago Feb 16, 1940 to Alvin and Carrie Bassett, stepmother Miriam. Graduated 1947 from Waukegan HS & entered the Army for six years, one serving with 1st Cav Div Korea. After Army duty he moved to Maple Hts, OH and found work at a cement block co where he met Norma who worked across the street. Following a 5-yr courtship and entrance into the AF they were engaged and he received orders to Viet Nam. They were married upon his return and began a lasting career in the military.
In 1984 Bob finished his commitment as a Flight Engineer on the C-5A aircraft at Travis AFB, CA, then landed permanently in St. Pete, FL, working for various funeral homes. More enjoyable adventures followed as he and Norma traveled to Israel in 1999 and explored America in their 5th wheel, visiting family and friends along the way.
At age 70 his birth family on his mother’s side found him after searching for many years. They had lived less than 200 miles from him in IL where he grew up which nobody knew until a family member tracked him down. Following was a great reunion that continued over the years.
If you asked Bob about his greatest experience in life, though, he would tell you it was meeting and knowing Jesus Christ as his Savior at age 17, living for Him and looking forward to seeing Him in heaven someday (Romans 10:13).
Interment will follow at a later time with honors at Bay Pines VA National Cemetery.
