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- Cage Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc.
Robert A. Bassett
February 7, 1959 ? July 11, 2026
Robert ?Tony? Bassett was born on February 7, 1959, in Los Angeles, California to Maida and William Bassett. He was the little brother to Michael. In 1960 the family moved to Chicago and settled in Woodlawn where his baby sister Patty was born, and where he was close to his maternal grandparents. He made a host of friends during these formative years due to his involvement in various activities. He was a member of Lincoln Memorial United Church of Christ. He was also active in the Boy Scouts going on numerous outings and day trips. He spent summers on his paternal grandfather?s farm learning about nature, which became a lifelong passion. He could name all kinds of birds and animals at a glance. Eventually, his family moved to South Shore, and he continued making lifelong connections. He enjoyed the block club parties and wandering the lakefront. He loved the family reunions, birthdays and holidays celebrated with family and friends.
He started his formal education at McCosh Elementary School eventually graduating from St. Dorothy Elementary School. He graduated from Hales Franciscan High School, where he excelled at track & field and basketball. His friendly, outgoing personality and his ability to make friends extended into college at Northeastern University where he studied business. He was active in student activities and the planning committee helping to bring musical groups, magicians, and other live acts to the school. He also became an active member of Nu Gamma Alpha fraternity.
During his young adult years, and living so close to Lake Michigan, he became interested in and developed a passion for sailing. He became an excellent sailor and was a very active member of the Jackson Park Yacht Club ? which has the largest number of Black sailors in the U.S. Along his journey he purchased his own sailboat, which he lovingly named Love Button. His fellow sailors often called on him for his experience and expertise. In 1994, he was part of the first African American crew in the famous Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac. His devotion for sailing eventually led him to join the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. He rose to the rank of Vice Captain and was appreciated for his knowledge and leadership. He served as Commander of his Flotilla 3516 multiple times.
During this period, Tony met the love of his life, Lois. They married on November 29, 1997, at Trinity United Church of Christ, where they had become members. Tony and Lois enjoyed a loving and supportive marriage for 29 years. Lois called him her rock and partner in adventure. They often took spontaneous trips and enjoyed antiquing, visiting art galleries and of course sailing. In August 2001, they rejoiced at the birth of twin daughters, Rebecca and Elizabeth. Once the girls were born he was an active, devoted and protective dad. He was the fun dad always finding new and exciting things to do. Tony and the family eventually moved to the Jackson Park Highlands neighborhood where they became members of Bryn Mawr Community Church.
Tony was a people person. It was easy to strike up a conversation with him. He was able to get to know and really enjoyed learning about others. His special gift was having people open up and share their story. This made him a natural fit for sales, where this ability served him well. He also loved art and worked in several art galleries, including Gallery 444 and worked for Video Arts. After obtaining his insurance producers? license, he worked for Mutual Benefits Life Insurance Company, Farmers Insurance, and other firms. He continued to work and enjoy an active social and work life, even after having a stroke in 2019. He subsequently suffered several more health challenges but still continued to have his winning smile and zest for life. Tony ascended into the hands of God, joining his parents and brother Michael, on July 11, 2026.
He is survived by his wife Lois Clarke Bassett, daughters Rebecca and Elizabeth, sister Patricia Booker Summers (Mark), nephew Christopher Booker, niece Jessica Booker, Sister-in law Tricia Austin (Eric), and a host of cousins and friends.
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Bassett Family Association Database
1959 - 2026 (67 years)
d. 31 Aug 2007, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, USA