Russell Basler

Russell Valentine Basler

Russell Valentine Basler, 89, of Bonne Terre, passed away January 11, 2021 at his home.  He was born May 2, 1931 in Kinsey, Missouri to the late Frank A. and Mary M. (Kertz) Basler and proudly served our country in the United States Army.  He was a dedicated farmer in the community working hand in hand through the years for the betterment of farmers across the nation. He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 63 years, Ruth Naomi (Miller).  Brothers and sisters preceding him in death include Elizabeth A. (Basler) Wood, Leonard F. Basler, Philomena V. (Basler) Silies, Genevieve R. (Basler) Zerwig, Albert H. Basler, Cletis F. Basler, Agnes A. (Basler) Moser, and Alice T. (Basler) Ringwald. 

Russell was a member of the Ste. Anne Catholic Church and known to be organizationally skilled to "get things done."  He will be remembered fondly as a devout believer in his Lord.  He was also a member of The Veterans of Foreign War and The American Legion having served in the Korean War. His dedication and love of country was immense, a true patriot. 

Russell is survived by his children, Kathleen A. Morris and her husband Donald of Imperial, Mary Lou Basler of Farmington, Lucretia J. Craig and her husband Robert T. III of Blue Springs, and Kenneth R. Basler and his wife Laura of Bonne Terre; two granddaughters, Lindsay N. Morris of Chandler, Arizona and Victoria L. Craig and her fiancé Adam Samson of London, England, 3 grandsons, Nicholas R. Basler and his fiancé Alexis Casteel of Imperial, Lucas R. Basler and Sarah Mann of Farmington, and Ryan A. Morris of Imperial; great-grandchildren, Dean, Harper, Benton and Bella Rose; one brother Clarence E. Basler of Farmington

Visitation will be 8:30 am Thursday, January 14, 2021 at C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre.  Funeral mass will be 11 am at Ste. Anne Church in French Village with Rev. Stephen F. Bauer officiating.  Due to Covid-19 restrictions, face coverings will be required and social distancing will be implemented at both C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Homes and Ste. Anne Church. Interment will follow at Ste. Anne Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Friends of the St. Louis University Liver Center through www.friendsoftheslulc.org