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Joseph Anthony Basil, beloved husband, father, brother, coach, and friend, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 75 on August 1, 2024.
Born on August 2, 1948, in Wheeling, West Virginia, Joe was the cherished son of Joseph Emil Basil and Rosemary (Pesta) Basil.
Joe grew up in Wheeling, West Virginia where he graduated from Wheeling Central Catholic High School. Shortly after, he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1969, returning home with a deepened sense of purpose and commitment to helping others.
After his service, Joe pursued higher education with fervor, earning a Master's degree in Higher Education and Business from West Virginia University in 1977. His career began at his alma mater, WVU, where he found his passion for working in student services.
In 1983, Joe moved to Minnesota, where he became the Director of the Atwood Student Union at St. Cloud State University. His leadership and dedication made a lasting impact on the university and its students. After his time in higher education, Joe followed another passion, transitioning to the office furniture industry, ultimately founding his own successful business, JB Officeworks.
Joe's love for sports was evident in all aspects of his life. He was a dedicated high school football coach, sharing his knowledge and passion with teams at St. Thomas Academy, Edina, Washburn, St. Louis Park, and Maple Grove. His enthusiasm for coaching extended to his children as well; he coached his daughters in soccer, basketball, and softball, and his son in basketball, baseball, and football. Joe was known for his infectious laughter, boundless compassion, and unwavering love for sports, music, dancing, a good party, and especially Christmas.
Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 33 years, Debra (Joppru) Basil; his son Colin and wife Katherine of St. Louis, Missouri; his daughters Hannah and husband Tony of St. Paul, Minnesota, and Katie of Denver, Colorado. He also leaves behind his brothers Jeff Basil of Wheeling, West Virginia, and Jon Basil of Fort Myers, Florida, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
Joe's life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and dedication to family and community. He will be remembered for the joy he brought to all who knew him and the countless lives he touched through his work and coaching.
A celebration of Joe's life will be held on Sunday, September 22nd from 12:00-4:00pm at Brookview Golf Course – Bassett Creek Room. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Joe's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, a reflection of his lifelong commitment to service and helping others.
Rest in peace, Joe. Your spirit and love will live on in our hearts forever.