Elizabeth Ann "Mickey" Basler

Elizabeth Ann “Mickey” Basler was born on August 25, 1936 in Wolf Lake, Illinois to Louie and Christina Ballance. She grew up in Cobden, Illinois and graduated from Cobden High School in 1954. After graduation, she attended Southern Illinois University earning her associate degree in 1956. On May 10, 1957, Mickey married the love of her life, Richard Basler, in Cobden, Illinois. They later lived in Chicago before moving to Iowa, living in Denison, Logan, Osceola, and Grinnell. Together, they raised two daughters, Kimberly Ann and Sandra Lou. Mickey was completely devoted to her husband of 36 years, who was even more devoted to her until his death. Throughout her life, Mickey worked as a medical transcriptionist, a bank teller, and as a receptionist at a pediatric clinic. She was a member at Citylight Church and was a part of Bible Study Fellowship. Bible study was one of Mickey’s favorite activities, and she made many close friends through Bible Study Fellowship. Other favorite pastimes included reading, spending time at her lake cabin, and boating. She loved to ride in the golf cart with Richard while he did what he loved, golf. Mickey treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was a tiny, soft-spoken woman who was sweet, kind and always had a ready smile. Her family will remember her gracious attitude and how sincere and appreciative she always was. Mickey was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Basler; father, Louie Ballance; mother, Christina Ballance; mother who raised her, Kitty Ballance; brothers: Paul Ballance, Dorris Ballance, Gene Ballance, and Donald Ballance; sisters: Wilma Ballance, Patty Ballance, and Peggy Ballance. She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Ron Metschke; daughter and son-in-law, Sandy and Nick Nelson; grandchildren: Brooke (Jason) Kubicek, Derrick (Erin) Metschke, Alex (Rachell) Metschke, Kylee Nelson, Kassi (Matt) Foote, Max Nelson (Haley Fay), and Sam Nelson; great grandchildren: Elizabeth “Libby” Kubicek, Owen Kubicek, Eli Kubicek, Miles Kubicek, Olive Metschke, Margot Metschke, Lewis Metschke, Rylee Metschke, Nolan Metschke, Bodhi Metschke; sister, Kittie Mae Yates; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends. A private family service will be held with interment in Logan, Iowa after Christmas. Memorials may be directed to Citylight Church or Bible Study Fellowship International.

Elizabeth Ann "Mickey" Basler

August 25, 1936 - December 20, 2023