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BORN
1955
DIED
2024
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Gene Bassette Obituary
July 5, 1955 - October 16, 2024
Geno Bassette passed away peacefully October 16 after a long fought battle with ALS. Geno was born to Cliff "Cooie" and Doris Bassette In Rice Lake, WI where he spent his youth. Geno moved out West after graduating Rice Lake High school in 1974 and obtained a job with the U.S. Forest Service where he spent the first few years as a Hotshot before obtaining a position with the Missoula Smokejumpers from 1980-1994. During that time Geno obtained a degree in Cartography from the University of Missoula and eventually retired as a Cartographer for the Lolo National Forest in 2006. Geno met his wife Pam Brown in 2001 and eventually married in 2008. Geno and Pam bounced around for several years moving to SD, UT, MN, and eventually settled back in Missoula. During this time Geno pursed his hobbies as a woodworker, ultra trail runner, hunter, lover of nature, camper and hiker, and enjoyed surrounded himself with friends and family. He was a truly inspiring human and spread joy and laughter to those around him. He is survived by his wife Pam Brown, four brothers, John (Chris), Paul (Sally), Pete (Gwen), Mike (Deb), one sister Mary (Dan), and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2025, memorial contributions may be sent to the National Smokejumper Association at smokejumpers.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for Gene Bassette
Sponsored by Garden City Funeral Home - Missoula.
Peter Duddleston
April 22, 2025
So sorry to hear about Geno. Enjoyed working with Geno our Forest Service days
Dottie Johnshoy
April 21, 2025
Dear Pam and family. Just today I learned of Geno´s passing. Geno and my late spouse, Glen Johnshoy, were great friends and running buddies. Geno was a true and faithful friend to Glen during the last days of his life. I will always remember his kindness and compassion. I am deeply saddened to hear of Geno´s passing. Pam, I would like to offer my support as we share grief for two amazing men.
Jim West
December 31, 2024
I fought fires w Geno in the 70´s, at Canyon RD outside headquarters Idaho. Lots of stories and good memories. He visited and stayed w my family in Seattle and my Mom still asks about him. Sad to see you go my friend, RIP
Scott Derenburger
November 6, 2024
It was always a better day when Geno and sometime times Pam came into Western MT Lighting while building their new home. What a fun guy!!! So sorry for your loss.
Jane (Turner) Lipke
November 5, 2024
Gene was always a bright light for fellow travelers. Filled with life, humor and kindness. Prayers of comfort for everyone he knew and loved
Garry Oye
November 4, 2024
Sad to hear of Geno´s passing. How do you react to the "last call" of the wolf? Always enjoyed his presence & energy. His spirit will float in the mountains & heaven around Missoula for years to come.
Katie Van Dorn
November 1, 2024
He was a very special person to those he knew well as well as to those he barely crossed paths with....The world needs more people like Geno!
Gene senne
November 1, 2024
Rest in peace old friend. My sincere condolences to your family, especially your gal pal.
Micki Tourtelotte
October 31, 2024
I am so very sorry to hear of Geno´s passing. I knew him through the Forest Service. He was a very kind and gentle soul. My deepest condolences.
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Garden City Funeral Home - Missoula1705 West Broadway, Missoula, MT 59808
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