February 26, 1963 – January 1, 2026
Michael Ray Bassett, 62, Danville, Ind., died peacefully at home in front of his roaring fireplace on New Year’s Day with his wife, son and daughter by his side.
Michael was born February 26, 1963, in Mt. Carmel, Ill. He attended kindergarten through his sophomore years in Noblesville and graduated from Danville High School in 1981.
He joined the army in 1983 and served two years in the National Guard.
He worked at Kadel Engineering, U.S. Air airlines in Indianapolis, San Francisco, and Chicago, and Siemer Distributors before settling into 30 years with Scott Pet until 2020. He took the company from a small manufacturing company to a major supplier in the pet industry. He moved the company from Avon to Rockville in 1995. During his 25 years in Parke County not only was he President and CEO of a multi-million-dollar company he was very involved in the community as well. A Volunteer Sheriff Deputy for eight years, a Little League coach, member of the Elks Lodge 247, and a generous contributor for multiple organizations including police and fire departments, ACS, and practically every kid who wanted a sponsor for their sport.
Mike was an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer, NASCAR enthusiast, and a huge music buff. He loved nothing more than a live concert. He cared deeply for his friends and family but had a special place in his heart for his many dogs over the years, his Boer goats and his Angus cows.
For a “fun and relaxing” retirement, Mike helped manage the family’s restaurant Two Guys Pizza and Wings in Danville where he continued his lifelong propensity of helping people.
His energy and intelligence were boundless and he will be remembered and missed.
Michael is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kathleen Scott Bassett; daughter, Betsy (Taylor); son, Jacob; sister, Julia Riffey (Mark); brothers, Don Bassett (Sabrina) and Jon Bassett (Erin); four grandchildren, and 13 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Bettie Bassett, and beloved his grandmother, Vivian Cundiff.
Condolences: hamptongentry.com