Helen Venae Basso

Helen Venae Basso, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away in Fremont, California, on October 23, 2025, at the age of 92.
Venae was born on December 3, 1932, in Star Valley, Wyoming, and spent most of her life in Fremont, where she built a remarkable legacy of compassion, creativity, and grace.
A dancer her entire life, Venae's devotion to dance and performance brought joy to everyone around her. She began teaching ballroom dance at Arthur Murray Studios and later shared her passion with seniors through the City of Fremont, leading tap dance classes well into her 80s. Her energy, elegance, and spirit made her a beloved teacher and cherished friend.
Venae was a pioneering nurse practitioner, only the second in Fremont. Throughout her career, she cared for and comforted countless patients, earning deep respect and gratitude from those she served.
Venae embraced life with generosity and style. She was an enthusiastic member of the Red Hat Society, where she shared friendship, laughter, and plenty of sparkle with her fellow members. She also volunteered with the Fremont Police Department, continuing a lifetime of service to others.
Venae is survived by her husband, Luis Basso; her stepchildren Claudio and Joetta, Alex and Laura; and her beloved grandchildren Trent, Lexie, and Tyler Nelson, Sean, Brian, Corina, Luis, Gabriel, and Siena Basso; and 10 great grandchildren. She now joins her three children, Duane, Kent, and Gena Rhodes, who preceded her in death.
Those who knew Venae will remember her radiant spirit, compassion, and unshakable zest for life.
A celebration of Venae's life will be held December 6th, from 1–3 p.m. at Spin a Yarn in Fremont. All who knew her are warmly invited to attend. Please RSVP to lexie.lenae@gmail.com.