Basil Brassfield

Mr. Basil James Brassfield (Buzz), son of the late George and Mildred Brassfield, was born on August 19, 1930, in Chicago, IL. Buzz passed away on April 25, 2025, in Portage, MI.

Buzz was a creative child, even as a small boy showing interest in drawing and painting. He shared fond memories of the time he spent on the farm near Dolton with brother, Jack, and sister, Lucinda (Cindy).

Buzz graduated from high school in Harvey, IL in 1948. He began junior college in Harvey, where he met Barbara Orwall in 1949. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1952 and entered the Army, serving during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1954.

After the war, Buzz was eager to marry his beautiful bride, Barbara, and in 1955, they began that journey together. Becoming a father in 1958 was a true joy when Ross was born. Robin followed soon after in 1960, and their family was complete. Buzz took pride in being a Dad, whether serving as a leader in Indian Guides with Ross, Sunday drives to church with Robin, or the many beautiful Christmas moments spent around the tree enjoying each other's company.

He enjoyed family vacations in the car to visit his parents in North Carolina and summers spent swimming at Warren Dunes. Later in life, he and Barb enjoyed taking bus tours, wine tasting events, and even traveling to Alaska and Sweden.

Buzz worked for Continental Insurance in Chicago for 37 years until his retirement in 1992. He was an active member of the Naperville Art League for many years, participating in many art shows and showcasing his talent and love for colors and natural beauty. Buzz took great pride in his daylilies and enjoyed their vibrant colors.

Buzz was a devoted Papa to Stacey and Kelly and always showed unconditional love. When the great-grandkids came along, he shared his love of watercolors with them, even letting them use the good brushes.

He and Barb moved to Holland in 2012, enjoying the windmills and tulip time. In 2017, they moved again to be closer to family in Portage.

Buzz had a quick wit and appreciation for nature, beauty, and family. He enjoyed holding sleeping babies and good pie.

Left to love and remember Buzz are his wife of 70 years, Barbara; daughter, Robin; granddaughters, Stacey and Kelly; 7 great grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and special friends. Buzz will be missed but never forgotten. Greatness lasts through eternity.

A funeral service will be held Monday, May 5, 2025, at 11:00am at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 3926 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, with a reception to follow. A committal service with military honors will be held Thursday, May 8 at 11:00am at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Rd, Augusta, MI 49012. Those attending are asked to arrive at 10:50am.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family visit https://www.langelands.com.