Vernon J. Basilius

06/19/1932 - 03/20/2020

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Vernon J. Basilius. He passed away March 20, 2020, at Aspen Grove, surrounded by his family at the age of 87. He was born June 19, 1932, to Otto and Marie Basilius in Toledo. Vern was a graduate of Macomber High School, Class of 1950. He honorably served his country in the Navy during the Korean Conflict and recently was a proud participant on an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. Vern joined his father working at Basilius Tool Co. and operated the business with his family until his retirement. Vern's father, Otto also passed along a profound love of music to his son at an early age. They played together in a band called Edelweiss. Vern was a gifted entertainer, playing the banjo and guitar as well singing and yodeling. He performed in a German band called the Tiroler's as well as with his Irish friend John Connolly. He also enjoyed helping Jack, Jeff and Hans with the German American Hour, Sunday morning radio show. Vern was proud of his heritage and worked tirelessly to build the G.A.F Society, he relished the time he spent at Oak Shade Grove and at the German American Festival. He and his son, Chris were active in Indian Guides together and will be "pal's forever" He enjoyed going to movies at the Jesse James Drive In, traveling to Sanibel Island and Disney World and listening to Glen Campbell. An avid golfer, he was "lucky" enough to have a hole in one. He will be remembered as a dedicated husband and father, who was hardworking, honest and a true gentleman, who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Vern is survived by his daughter, Kimberly (Dewey Ayers) Czerniak; son, Christopher (Terry) Basilius; grandsons, Chad, Jacob and Jordan Czerniak and Jason, Josh and Jacob Opaczewski and special friend, Amy Pullen. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce; brother, Donald W. Basilius and sister, Carol Keiser.

Special thanks to Aspen Grove and ProMedica Hospice for the exceptional care given to Vern.

Due to the Covid-19 gathering restrictions, services will be private, however a livestream for viewing the service online will be available at https://vimeo.com/399927211, 12:00p.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2020. A celebration of Vern's life will be held at a later date. He will be interred in Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice. Condolences for his family may be expressed online at

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Published by The Blade from Mar. 25 to Mar. 27, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Vernon Basilius

Sponsored by Ansberg-West Funeral Directors.

11 Entries

Justin

November 7, 2022

My condolences. Apologies for the odd message some years later but was Vernon a graduate of the University of Michigan and played on a sports team there?

March 27, 2020

To Amy and the family of Vern,
We are so very, very sorry for your loss and send our deepest condolences to everyone of you from the bottom of our hearts.
Amy we enjoyed having the two of you over to our house so much. In hindsight we wish it would have been more often! We are so glad the two of you spend the golden years together in harmony.
To the family of Vern, please know we loved, loved, loved to dance to the music your dad played with Fritz and later with his own group. You might know who we are when I tell you that I am originally from Germany and my husband is from India.
Love and safe XO XO,
Evelyn and Hindol Ghatak

March 27, 2020

Chris,
So sorry for your loss. Your father was so well thought of in our home when I was growing up. My father truly respected him and the way he ran his company. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Baron and Margie Black

Sandy White

March 26, 2020

So sorry to hear of Vern's passing. We would run into each other one in awhile and he always remembered me and we had great talks. Loved seeing him at the GAF every year. Rest in peace.

John Malone

March 26, 2020

My parents were neighbors to Vern and Joyce and it did take a day that Vern came over and my father and Vern became fast friends. These two great guys Vern would talk about his German heritage and my dad about our Irish heritage. I ran into Vern a few years ago and the gentleman Vern was always mentioned my father with that great smile. The Irish have always had a way with words and Chris this is for you. Those we love don't go away they walk beside us everyday. Unseen unheard but always near. Still loved still missed very dear.

Mel and Shirley Binkowski

March 24, 2020

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Vern. Always seemed to be a happy go lucky guy. Our sincere sympathy to the family of Vern. A;ways enjoyed his company.

Terry & Kathy Starkey

March 24, 2020

Vern was such a great person he always had a smile on his face and something nice to say to you and always a story :) He treated everyone as a friend. Terry was honored to have worked for/with him over the years. Our Prayers Go out to his family. He will be missed!

Michelle Birdsell

March 24, 2020

My sweet cousin Vern such a beautiful soul. You always had a funny joke or story for me. I will love & miss you forever! Love and prayers for Kim, Chris and your grandchildren. ♥ Rest In Peace.

Amy Martin

Sent Flowers

Dan &

March 23, 2020

Vern and Amy were the best neighbors we have ever had. It was an honor to have had the chance to get to know Vern. We love him so much and will miss him always. Our condolences to his family. Vern will always be part of ours.

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