WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
William Blaine Basham, age 81, of Sturgis, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday evening, August 27, 2025.
He was born on February 11, 1944 in Logansport, Indiana,
Bill had made his home in the Sturgis area since the 1970s, having previously lived in the Indianapolis area. He was the proud owner and operator of Basham Building in Sturgis. Before founding his own business, he spent many years working with Burns Buildings in Indiana.
A proud veteran, Bill served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Corporal.
He was a life member of Eagles Lodge #1314 and a former member of both Neuman-Wenzel Post #73 American Legion and Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 V.F.W. Bill enjoyed more than 30 years of camaraderie with his Wednesday Night Card Club. He also found great joy in golfing, fishing, and mushroom hunting—but nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren.
He is survived by his loving wife, Antoinette “Toni”; his children, children and their spouses: Raychael and Joe Schmidt of Sturgis, Ricky L. and Carrie Hart II of Sturgis; his cherished grandchildren: Kaeden and Brixen Schmidt, and Hudson and McKinlee Hart; and his sister, Geraldine Roseberry of California. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers: George, Kenny, Richard, and Dale Basham.
In accordance with Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 20th, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at American Legion Post #73, located at 500 W. Chicago Rd. in Sturgis. Full military honors will be presented at 2:00 by the Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 V.F.W. Honor Guard and the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:
• Shriners Children’s Hospital, 233 Fulton Suite 102, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
• Centrica Care Hospice, 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Relatives and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences online at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
