Elsie Helena Basal

Born April 25, 1918, in West Branch Township, a daughter of Max and Lilly (Zerbel) Rosin, Elsie was raised in West Branch Township and remained a lifelong area resident until relocating to Marquette in her later years. She was a 1935 graduate of the John D. Pearce High School and, as a young woman, was the primary caregiver for her mother until her mother’s death in 1939. Elsie was united in marriage to Laurence Basal in 1941 and together the couple established a home and began raising a family of three children. For the 50 years, she lived in her home, Elsie had a huge vegetable garden and a large yard decorated with many flowers. She was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker who ran a “very tight ship”. She lived a very active life, walking five miles a day well into her 80’s. In her leisure moments, she enjoyed nothing better than watching her grandchildren’s sporting events and cheering them on. Other pursuits included playing Bridge, working crossword puzzles, reading, bowling, being an avid Packer backer, and most anything that involved her children, grandkids, and friends. Elsie was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Elsie is survived by her children, Sharon Basal of Green Bay, Janice Betts of Marquette, and Gary (Diana Peterson) Basal of Marquette; six grandchildren, Gregory Basal, Darrell (Mandy) Basal, Vickie Finners, Chip (Hanna) Betts, Jamie (Chad) Weigold, and Andy Betts; eight great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Elsie was preceded in death by her husband, Laurence in 1986; twin sister, Alice (Jack) Dupras and a sister, Lilian (Oscar) Priebe; brothers, Harry and Carl Rosin; and in-laws, Mary and Bill Basal.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Redeemer Lutheran Church on Wednesday, April 17, beginning at 11:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 noon. Rev. Chad Ott will officiate. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall. Interment will be made in the Park Cemetery.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of the Norlite Nursing Center for their compassionate care and for the many kindnesses extended to the family over the past three years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1700 W. Fair Avenue, Marquette, MI 49855.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com