Gary was born on March 19th, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Kenneth & Beverly (Dunbar) Bassett. Growing up, Gary and his family frequently vacationed in Northern Michigan, a place he grew to love. In 1986 he made it his permanent home, settling in the region with his own family.

Gary was a hardworking man who would do anything for his family and friends. He owned his own carpentry business for most of his life, building beautiful custom homes with his sons and many of their friends working alongside him. He had a boisterous personality and loved rock ‘n’ roll music and sports--mainly baseball, football and basketball, as he kept up on all the players and stats throughout his lifetime.

Most knew him by his way of making them laugh as he always had a funny story, joke to tell or a debate to get into.

Died January 17, 2026 Above all, Gary cherished his grandsons, who affectionately called him “Papa”. Being their Papa was the greatest joy of his life, and he made sure that they knew it by keeping up with their accomplishments and having memories with each of them.

Gary is survived by, Diane Bassett, his children, Andrew Bassett, Frank Bassett and Dawn (Christopher) DuBois, his beloved grandchildren, Blake, Tyler, Devin (DuBois) and Garrison (Bassett). And his siblings, Greg (Lynette) Bassett, Bill (Beth) Bassett, Marla (Bob) Kohler and Don ( Julie) Bassett and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Beverly (Dunbar) Bassett.

The family will greet friends from 5 to 8 p.m. with a Celebration of Life at 7 p.m. on Friday, February 20 at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay.

Please share condolences with Gary’s family at www.martinson.info Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.