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416th Bombardment Group (L) Dr. Robert J. "Bob" Basnett 1st Lt, Bombardier/Navigator October 18, 1922 - June 6, 2020 671st Bombardment Squadron (L) |
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Robert J. Basnett
October 18, 1922 - June 6, 2020
Obituary
Robert J. Basnett, 97, of Fulton passed away on June 6, 2020, 76 years after he flew four missions over France in the D-Day invasion and 62 years after he graduated from veterinary school and moved to Fulton.
Bob was born on October 18, 1922 in Webb City, Missouri to Thomas M. and Gladys M. (Salas) Basnett.
He graduated from Webb City High School and immediately volunteered for the Army Air Corp, was assigned to the 416th Bomb Group as a navigator/bombardier where he served until 1945 and flew 65 missions over Europe. He was awarded a Purple Heart, six Bronze Stars, The Distinguished Flying Cross, and an Air Medal with eleven Oak Leaf Clusters.
When he was discharged, he returned to Missouri and attended the University of Missouri where he received a BS in Animal Husbandry, an MS in Dairy Management, and a DVM. After graduation in 1958, the family moved to Fulton where Bob began practicing veterinary medicine with Dr. Pat McGinnis and later with Dr. Robert Link.
Bob loved Fulton and Callaway County. He served on the Fulton School Board, Callaway County Extension Board, Callaway County Special Road District, and the Human Society Board, as well as serving as an elder in the Callaway Christian Church. He was honored with the Kingdom of Callaway Settlers Award in 2005. After retirement, he continued to enjoy skiing, especially where he became eligible for a free lift ticket at age 70. His love of woodworking continued from his teenage years into his eighties. His suitcases were always at the ready in case any travel presented itself. His dry wit never left him.
Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Lanola "Puz" Basnett, less than a month ago. He is survived by children, Dr. Michael and Teri Basnett, and Jan and Jeff Recob; seven grandchildren, Jessica Ellinsworth (Chris), Brooke Peterson (Dan), Daniel Recob, Dr. Andrew Basnett (Jeanna), Catey Jones (Ben), Dr. Joseph Basnett, and Julia Recob; and fourteen great-grandchildren.
The family would like to thank Dr. Robert Pierce, the staff of Valley Park North, Fulton Manor, and the Missouri Veteran’s Home for the wonderful care Bob received in the last years.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.maupinfuneralhome.com.
Published by Maupin Funeral Home On-line (PDF)
Lanola "Puz" Basnett
March 23, 1926 - May 15, 2020
Obituary
Lanola "Puz" Basnett, 94, of Fulton passed away on Friday, May 15, 2020.
She was born March 23, 1926 as he youngest of eight children to Isaac and Delia Epperly. She was raised in Shell Knob, Missouri and attended Shell Knob School, Cassville High School, and the University of Missouri where she earned a BS in Home Economics and a Masters in Education. During her career, she taught in several different school systems including Auxvasse High School, Fulton High School, South Callaway R-II, and Missouri School for the Deaf in Callaway County until she retired in 1986.
On October 12, 1947, she married Robert Basnett which began a 72-year marriage. They moved to Callaway County in 1958 and began a love affair with Fulton that lasted the rest of her life. She was an active member of Callaway Christian Church and Chapter KE P.E.O. until she moved into assisted living in 2016. Until her health prevented, she was an avid golfer and enjoyed her dogs, sewing, cooking for family and friends, and traveling with Bob.
She is survived by her husband, Bob; children, Jan and Jeff Recob and Mike and Teri Basnett; seven grandchildren; and fourteen great grandchildren. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews who were very special to her.
The family would like to thank Dr. Lisa Pierce and the staff of Valley Park North Assisted Living for the wonderful care she received.
Private family services will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Callaway Christian Church or Our House, c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Boulevard, Fulton, MO 65251.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.maupinfuneralhome.com.
Published by Maupin Funeral Home
On-line (PDF)
See also Fulton Sun On-Line Obituary (PDF)