Mr. Frederick W. Bassler

Frederick William Bassler of Clarksville, Maryland, passed away on September 22, 2018, at the age of 86. He was born on April 8, 1932, on the family farm which was where Howard County General Hospital is now located. He was the fifth of eight children, and grew up with many cousins who lived on farms nearby. School was not his favorite pastime, but his knowledge of construction and machinery made him a go-to for anyone who could benefit from his talents. He helped build many family members’ beautiful homes. After retiring, he helped build or renovate a number of houses, both for family and as part of Habitat for Humanity and other organizations. He was a survivor of three kinds of cancer, and was able to have nearly 3 years of a great life after being diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. It was hard to think of him as a cancer survivor, because he kept bouncing back and was using a chainsaw at age 86 just a couple of months before his death. As his oncologist said, he was a rock star! Fred loved family gatherings and parties, and was known for setting up hayrides and games for everyone to enjoy. When he knew he didn’t have long to live, he insisted on holding one last big family reunion. He wanted to make sure everyone had fun and he was able to visit with them. Fred loved sharing stories and cutting up with those around him. Truth be told, he was still just a big kid enjoying life! He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Virginia May (Brown), daughter Laura Kimmel and husband Jeff, and grandchildren Eric and Rachel Kimmel, daughter Carolyn Bassler and grand-daughter Victoria Gulas. Also surviving are siblings Alfred, Calvin, and John Bassler, Doris Rausch, Laura Lacey, and Gertrude Sewell and their families. Fred was predeceased by his son Daniel, and parents Benjamin F. and Gertrude (Kline) Bassler and brother Benjamin K. Bassler. Visitation will be held on Friday, 28 Sept, 2-4 and 6-8 at Haight Funeral Home, 6416 Sykesville Rd, Sykesville, MD. His funeral service is set for Saturday, 29 Sept, at 10 at Linden-Linthicum Methodist Church, 12101 Linden Linthicum Ln, Clarksville, MD. Burial to follow at St Paul's Lutheran Church, 11795 Scaggsville Rd, Fulton, MD. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Linden Linthicum UMC, 12101 Linden Linthicum Lane, Clarksville, MD 21029 or to Gilchrist Hospice, 5537 Twin Knolls Rd., Suite 434, Columbia, MD 21045.

Mr. Frederick W. Bassler

April 8, 1932 - September 22, 2018