Richard J. Bassette

Richard Jay Bassette of Interlaken passed away at home on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at the age of 82.

Richard was born January 17, 1932 the youngest son of the late Myron Wheeler and Margaret Filkins Bassette of Interlaken. Richard graduated from Interlaken High School, and served in the US Army Signal Corp during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955.

Richard and his first wife Madalyn Lilley, who preceded him in death in1997, raised mink on their farm north of Interlaken. He was an active pilot for a number of years and involved in the local flying club. He was a life member of the American Ham Relay League and a Ham radio Operator for over 40 years.

Richard retired from New York State Parks Department in 1990, and enjoyed serving on a number of local community boards including Lake View Cemetery of Interlaken, the Interlaken Public Library, and the Trumansburg and Lodi Gun Clubs.

Richard is survived by his wife Sandra Pell Bassette; her son Chris; sister-in-law Elizabeth Bassette; brother-in-law Charles (Cheryl) Pell; and numerous nieces and nephews, children of his deceased brothers Arthur, James, Myron Jr., and Franklin. In addition to his parents and brothers, he was predeceased by his sister Mary; and his adopted daughter Natalie.

A private Graveside Service with Military Honors at Lake View Cemetery will be announced at a later date. Gifts in Richard’s memory may be directed to Lake View Cemetery, PO Box 562, Interlaken, NY 14847 or the Trumansburg Gun Club, PO Box 10, Trumansburg, NY 14886 or the Lodi Gun Club, PO Box 44, Lodi, NY 14860.