Laurel Alma Basney, age 85, of Blanchard, passed away at home on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Born in Lakeview on January 7, 1940, to parents Claude and Lily (Morey) Loomis, she spent much of her life in Lakeview attending and graduating from Lakeview High School with The Class of 1958. Ilo Basney took Laurel for his bride on June 27, 1958, at Brockway Church. The newlyweds moved into Laurel’s childhood home, where they would live and raise their family for 70 years together. Throughout her life Laurel was known for her artistic passion for ceramics, working for many years at the ceramic shop in Six Lakes and even at the age of 85 still working on pieces. Additionally, she was employed at Butler’s and Hi-Q. Trips to Mackinaw Bridge, snowmobile rides, or a cruise on the motorcycle were adventures Laurel enjoyed with her family. As her years passed, Laurel found the greatest joy in everyday moments shared at her home as wife, mother, and grandmother. In every piece of fabric stitched, every doll crafted, and every Christmas pie baked, Laurel’s spirit lives on.

Laurel will be deeply missed by her husband Ilo; daughter Froncine (Rick) McKenna of Riverdale; son Brian (Mikki) Basney of Lakeview; son-in-law Jason Johnson; grandchildren Karmen McKenna, Chad (Amanda) Basney, Jeffrey (Stephany) Basney, Cassie (Tyler) Boshoven, and Caitlyn Johnson; and great-granddaughter Madeline Basney.

Preceding Laurel in death are her parents and daughter Carrie Johnson.

Laurel’s family will be gathering to honor her life for a private burial.