Richard L. Bassett

Richard L. Bassett, 78, of Jamestown, ND, died Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at Golden Living Center, Moorhead, MN. Richard Bassett was born August 22, 1933, in Arnold, NE, the son of Clifford and Lila (Sell) Bassett. The family moved to Gardena, CA when Richard was young. He graduated from Gardena High School in 1952. Richard earned a Bachelor's degree in Music Therapy from the University of Pacific in Stockton, CA. He was proud to have played music with the Dave Brubeck Quartet while enrolled there. Richard served in the US Army from October 12, 1956 until July 29, 1958 during the Korean Conflict. Richard married Juanita Hawkins in 1959 and they made their home in the Los Angeles, CA area. In 1965, the family moved to Jamestown where he began a career at the North Dakota State Hospital in the Activity Therapy Department. He married LeaRae Olafson in July 1989. Richard retired after 35 years with the NDSH and he continued to live in Jamestown. He was an active member of the AMVETS and Legion, Elks, and Eagles clubs. He also enjoyed his time exercising at the Wellness Center . Richard enjoyed listening to music, especially jazz and classical and spending time with his family and pets. He is survived by his children, Brenda (Kevin Zepper) Ruziska, Moorhead, MN, Cliff Bassett, AZ, Clinton Olafson, Jamestown, Valerie (Leland) Johnson, Jamestown, Sheila (Kevin) Lagodinski, Fargo, ND; one sister, Elayne (Don) Nezzer, FL; and close friend, Joy Skeel, Jamestown. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; wife, LeaRae; and his dog, Charlie.

Funeral Service - 2:00 p.m., Sunday, October 30, 2011 at Williams-Lisko Funeral Chapel, Jamestown.

Visitation - 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Sunday, October 30, 2011 at Williams-Lisko Funeral Chapel, Jamestown.

Interment - Sunset Memorial Gardens, Jamestown, ND.

Memorials: James River Humane Society, 8700 36th Street SE, Jamestown, ND 58401.