Mary Bassett

MARY ELIZABETH BASSETT was born to Felix L. and Elizabeth B. (Ziegler) Spielmann on October 16, 1932 in McCook County, South Dakota. She was raised in Humboldt, South Dakota where she attended St. Ann’s Parochial School and then Humboldt High School. On June 28, 1949, she was united in marriage to Leo Glenn Egger. Following their marriage, they lived by Colton, South Dakota. Leo died in a car accident on June 25, 1958. After his death, Mary moved back to Humboldt. On November 30, 1959, she was united in marriage to Joel E. Bassett. Following their marriage, they lived in Baltic, South Dakota for five years. In 1965, they moved to Jasper, Minnesota. In the early 70’s, Joel and Mary joined together as owner/operators of Bassett Service of 19 years. After leaving the station, she worked various odd jobs, starting with Dr. Olsen Dentistry, before cleaning at the Jasper Bank, and finally working overnights at Sunrise Village. Helping the residents of Sunrise Village was a great passion for her. Joel preceded her in death on April 19, 2001. After his death, Mary continued to live and work in Jasper. On Monday, November 15, 2021 she entered the care of the Pipestone County Hospice House in Pipestone where she died peacefully on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at the age of 89 years, one month, and one day.

Mary had been a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Jasper until its closing. She then became a member of St. Leo Catholic Church in Pipestone. She liked to watch the Twins play. She also liked to crochet, cross stitch, embroider, and do puzzles. Together, Joel and Mary loved to play pool. After Joel’s passing, Mary continued to play pool joining the league and enjoying a game whenever she could. Together they also enjoyed bowling. Mary was on the women’s league for many years.

She is lovingly remembered by her nine children, Cindy (Phillip) Chiodi of Garretson, South Dakota, Jacki (Terry) Skyberg of Jasper, Diane Aspaas of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Evelyn (Gordy) Mead of Brookings, South Dakota, Glenda (Dale) Sanow of Jasper, Minnesota, Julie Meyer of Jasper, Mona Bassett of Pipestone, E.J. (Janine) Bassett of Brookings, South Dakota, and Ronda (Scott) Wolfe of Sioux Falls; many grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo; her husband, Joel; her son, Joel Bassett, Jr.; her daughter, Patricia Lamb; infant twin daughters; one grandson, Randy Mead; one great-grandson, Joshua Mead; her parents; and siblings, Anna Staebell, Magdelan Ahrendt, Rosella Carter, Felix S. Spielmann, and Donald N. Spielmann.