Gerald Basler

Gerald Basler, 79, passed away on Monday, Dec. 24, 2012, at Northern Montana Hospital of natural causes. Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 25, 2013, at Holland & Bonine Funeral Chapel.

Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements.

Jerry was born on July 11, 1933, to Arthur and Eloise (Snellert) Basler in Phillipsburg, N.J. Following high school graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, and served his country, retiring from the USAF as a technical sergeant in 1973. He had been transferred to Havre in 1971 while still serving in the Air Force, and after retirement, he stayed in Havre, working at Master Sports and managing the Montana State Liquor Store in Havre.

Jerry enjoyed playing fast-pitch softball, reveling in his position of “catcher." He enjoyed fishing and hunting birds.He had a phenomenal sense of humor and could remember a joke after hearing it only one time. Jerry was also a good impressionist, known to his family for his Jerry Lewis impression, and a good storyteller, as well. He loved spending time at the cabins in the Bear Paws and at Fresno with his family, and he doted on his dogs Charlie and Spike, whom he considered his fourth and fifth kids.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Eloise Basler; his son, Rick Basler; and his sister, Eleanor Seveny. His companion of many years, Betty Jo Malsam of Havre, passed 22 days later.

He is survived by his two sons, Michael (Carla) Basler of Midland, Texas, and Berry (Caroline) Basler of Denver, Colo.; his two grandchildren; and his one great-grandchild.