Beatrice Newman Bassford, 85, of Sturgeon Bay passed away at Door County Medical Center on October 6, 2017.  She was born September 25, 1932 in Sturgeon Bay to Lester E. and Florence (Bridenhagen) Newman Sr.  On October 17, 1952 she married Charles Hollis Bassford III in Sister Bay.

Bea and Charlie raised their family in Des Plaines, IL, retiring to Bradenton, FL in 1985. They enjoyed spending their summers in Bea’s beloved Door County.  During her life, Bea was very active in several churches in both Bradenton and Door County.  She faithfully served alongside her husband and “love of her life” for over 64 years.

Bea worked so very hard as a homemaker, wife and mother, and now she is at rest with her Lord.  Bea’s favorite Bible verse was Matthew 11:28: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” 

Survivors include three children, Barbara (Paul) Lambert, Oak Park, IL; Charles H. (Cheryll) Bassford IV, South Bend, IN; Kathy (Danny) Mockler, Marco Island, FL; 19 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren with “one-on-the-way”; sister-in-law Carol Newman, cousins, nieces, and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Lester E. Newman Jr. and step-sister Mabel (Sylvester) Monfils.

Private burial services will be conducted at Bayside Cemetery.  A visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at Calvary Baptist Fellowship (915 Egg Harbor Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI) from 12:30 – 2:30 pm.  Memorials may be directed to Calvary Baptist Fellowship or Loaves and Fishes.  Forbes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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