Larry Gene Basselman

Larry Gene Basselman, 81, formerly of Deshler, Ohio, passed away on August 3, 2025, at the Douglas T. Jacobson Veteran’s Nursing Home in Port Charlotte, Florida.

He was born on January 19, 1944, to the late Fred and Rufina Basselman. Larry was a 1962 graduate of Deshler High School, where he was very active in the school FFA program.

Larry joined the US Army after high school graduation and was trained as a Military Policeman. His assignments included numerous continental United States posts as well as a tour in the Republic of Vietnam.

After discharge from the Army in 1965, he farmed with his father on the family home property in Deshler until moving to Florida.

Larry subsequently was a 50-year resident of Sarasota, Florida, until 2024 when he moved into the Veteran’s Nursing Home in Port Charlotte.

He was an avid collector of baseball cards and other memorabilia. His interests along with his jovial personality caused him to make many friends along his life’s journey.

Larry is survived by son Sam (Rada) Scharf; daughter Lisa Bolton; 3 grandchildren, Matthew Bolton, Nicholas Bolton, and Mila Scharf; 2 sisters, Lou Ann (Max) Miller, and Lana (Mark) Hoops; 4 nieces, Stephanie (Brian) Witwer, Carrie (Dave) Nathe, Machal Hoops, and Kate Hoops; and 3 nephews, Brad (Sara) Miller, Alex (Jenna) Hoops and Tyler (Rachel) Hoops.

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