Obituary of John C. Bassler

John C. Bassler, 77, of McLean, VA passed away peacefully in the arms of his wife at home, on March 2, 2024.  Born in Phoenix, AZ, he was the son of Richard and Anne Bassler (both deceased) and the brother of Dianne Harrah of Clifton, VA and Peter Bassler (deceased).

John is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years Sally Bassler, two sons Christopher Bassler (wife Kayleen Gloor) of Falls Church, VA and Michael Bassler of Annapolis, MD, two granddaughters Harper and Abigail, and brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and many friends.

John suffered from rheumatoid arthritis pain for over 40 years, but those who knew him recall his positive attitude and perseverance which led him to find intuitive and productive ways to stay engaged in life and work.  He was a mechanical engineer and always felt fortunate to include in his career and finally retire from Washington Gas Energy Systems.  He made several special friends whom he continued to see regularly in retirement as the WGES Gang.

As an Air Force dependent, John lived in Japan and Colorado Springs, CO before moving to Virginia in 1965.  He had an interest in almost everything, and he especially liked photography, home and yard projects, boating, traveling, and visits to botanical gardens and state and national parks. John enjoyed being in the mountains, but he developed a special fondness for being on and around water, especially the Virginia side of the Chesapeake Bay.

For well over a decade, he was an active volunteer for Boy Scouts of America (Troop 1130 in McLean) and Sea Scout Ship 1942, as well as the McLean Tuckahoe Rec Club’s summer swim program.  With his experience and research skills, it was not unusual for him to embrace the opportunity to help family members or friends design and construct their home and conservation improvement projects.  Often as someone spoke, he would sketch a detailed, evolving design idea or an explanation of how something worked on an envelope or napkin.

His family will honor him in an outdoor, private gathering in “a beautiful, natural setting,” as he requested and have more family and friends gather at a later date.  “Especially think of me when you see a dragonfly,” was his request.

This wonderful, dedicated, humble husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many will be remembered with love and tenderness as he now rests in eternal peace.

In lieu of sending flowers, John asked that people consider making a donation to the charity of their own choice.