Ray J. Bassen

Ray J. Bassen, age 84, of Hoffman, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Salem Township Hospital. Born on February 5, 1941, he was the son of Martin and Edna (Sheverbush) Bassen. He was united in marriage to Jacqueline Myers, who preceded him in death on August 27, 2022.

Ray was welcomed into eternal life by his beloved wife, as well as his parents and siblings. He was preceded in death by his brothers Clyde Bassen and Edwin Bassen, and his brother Harold Bassen in infancy, along with his sisters Wilma Terry and husband Hugh, and Doris Atchison and husband Les, and his in-laws: Marilyn Holle, Pat Carter, William Myers, Mack Myers, Larry Myers, Tom Myers, and Dewayne Myers.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Dewayne Bassen and wife Jane, Randy Bassen and wife Sherri, and daughter Cathy Wood and husband Terry. Ray took great joy in the company of his grandchildren: Jessica Phillips and husband Abram, Elizabeth Wood, Ethan Bassen and wife Zephyr, Alec Bassen, Tara Ramey and husband Joe, and Adam Brewer. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Olivia Phillips, Madilynn Phillips, Rylie Clegg, Caden Ramey, Makensie Brewer, and Taylor Brewer. Ray cherished his family bonds, including his siblings, Roy Bassen and wife Jean, Carol Stein and husband Stanley, and sister-in-law Sue Myers.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hoffman. Ray fondly remembered his younger years spent fishing and hunting. He had a successful career, serving as the plant manager at Egyptian Concrete and later at Quad County Ready-Mix. Ray appreciated the simple pleasures in life, such as enjoying morning coffee and Monday luncheons with his buddies, as well as watching Cardinals baseball.

For many years, Ray selflessly cared for his wife, Jackie, exemplifying his deep love for family which extended to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He took great pride in his siblings, often being mistaken for his brother Roy's twin.

Funeral services in honor of Ray will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hoffman, with Pastor Brett Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Memorial contributions in Ray's memory may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church and can be directed to the church or sent to Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231.