It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John William Bassett, born November 8, 1957, who transitioned peacefully on September 23, 2023. John was a man of many names— Mabud, Dad, and Baba. 

John is survived by his only child, Amy Bassett-Wells; her husband Lucas; and grandchildren Ashlyn “Rylie” and John Carson, with whom he was very close as their devoted 'Baba.'  John also leaves behind his partner Candace d’Obrenovic and her daughter Alana; as well as four siblings and their spouses: David Bassett, Mary Bassett, Betty Osborn, and Ana Cisneros; his sister-in-law Bozena Bassett; many beloved nieces, nephews, friends, and his grand-dog Bodhi. He joined his brother Bob Bassett and his parents Katherine and Clarence Bassett, who preceded him in leaving this earth.

John was a man of vivacity, wit, humor, humility, and generosity. He was a devoted and caring soul whose love for others was always given fully and unconditionally. He leaves behind a legacy of effortlessly exuded loving kindness to all those with whom he came into contact. 

Born in Mexico City to Presbyterian missionary parents, John had a childhood rich in multicultural experiences which helped foster the appreciation and respect that he felt for all humankind and the heart connections that we all share. John believed in accepting people for who they are, taking care of those in need, seeking to understand, welcoming all, being socially conscious, respecting the environment, and spreading peace and harmony.

After serving in the military and becoming a proud father as a very young man, John moved to Austin and attended the University of Texas, specializing in Chemical Engineering, which led to a successful 35+ year career with the Texas Department of Transportation. 

John attended Trinity Presbyterian with his parents and daughter for many years. As a spiritually open-minded person, John explored and appreciated the teachings of many world religions and spiritual practices. After becoming a devoted student of western Sufism and the teachings of Hazrat Inayat Khan, he graduated from the Institute for Applied Meditation and subsequently taught Heart Rhythm Meditation for many years.

Being very health conscious, John wholeheartedly believed the old adage, “let food be thy medicine.” He was a vegetarian for almost 40 years and enjoyed many potlucks and events with the Vegetarian Network of Austin. He also loved to sit in the sauna, relax in the hot tub, float in sensory deprivation tanks, and take walks with loved ones in nature.

John never knew a stranger; he befriended people everywhere he went and showed a genuine interest in getting to know them. John's life was a testimony of deep compassion and empathy manifested through his many acts of service to anyone in need. 

To know John is to love him…and to feel truly loved.  He lived life fully and accomplished so much. Yet, to those who knew him best, his most amazing accomplishments were seen in his roles as a loving brother, son, friend, spiritual student, meditation mentor, companion, Baba, and Dad. 

John's legacy is one of spreading love, wisdom, and joy. His vibrant personality and generous spirit left an indelible imprint on all those who had the privilege to know him. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to live on through the lives of those he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held in John's honor on November 18, 2023 at the Wildflower Hall at McKinney Roughs Nature Park. All who knew and loved John are welcome to attend to reminisce about shared moments of joy, wisdom, and love. If you are willing to share personal stories about your connection with John, reach out to Amy at amyshelly26@gmail.com. Please wear comfortable shoes so you can hike and enjoy the beauty of these trails, as John once did. Please RSVP on this website so we have an accurate headcount. 

12:00 Potluck lunch (optional)

1:45 Gather for Celebration of Life

3:30-? Continue the celebration in fellowship with one another and in enjoying the beauty of the park

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made toward the "Bassett Family Memorial Bench". As a lover of Austin’s many parks, John would appreciate creating a place for people to sit, reflect, and connect. Funds are being raised via the following link: https://everloved.com/life-of…

We invite you to remember John for the love he shared, the wisdom he imparted, and the joy he spread. May his vivacious and compassionate spirit continue to inspire us all.

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