Donald Ray Basham

Donald Ray Basham

January 31, 1934 – October 30, 2022

                                                                                                             Age 88                                   Age 68                            Age 18

Donald Ray Basham passed away October 30, 2022, at the age of 88 from chronic illness.  He was surrounded by close family and Friends as he passed peacefully. Don Basham was born January 31, 1934, in Harrisburg, Illinois.  He was the youngest son of 10 children.

Donald spent his formative years hunting the woods of Illinois, caring for all manner of wounded woodland animals, and learning everything he could about cars.  At 18 he married the love of his life, Marlyss Olney.  Their courtship was spent dancing, going to the drive in, roller skating at the local roller rink, attending her singing competitions and cruising around town in Don’s old Ford. They were married 70 years.

After high school, Don completed his certification exams and became one of the youngest Ford Master Mechanics in the Bay Area.  People knew Don far and wide as a mechanic you could trust for quality service.  Business moguls, movie stars and athletes would periodically come asking for Donald.  Players from the Oakland As would hand him wrenches and football players would help him set lug nuts on wheels.  Don’s love for anything with an engine was contagious and his work showed that passion.  He would often say he could fix anything with an engine and at least 2 wheels…” except for “Stupid-bakers” but they went under, so I never had to worry about them after that.”

Donald had a great circle of friends and hobbies.  As a lifelong member of the Moose Lodge association, he could be found playing cards with the boys, donating his time, and helping others. In his off time, he was a prodigious angler, radio-controlled airplane pilot, DIYer, outdoorsman and entrepreneur. He could often be found playing pool at a pub near home. He enjoyed life, was a good husband and father, and a nice all-around guy. He will be missed by family and friends.

Marlyss Basham is receiving calls at 714 846-7729