Basil Jean Lance, age 88, passed away on January 2, 2024 at Legacy Assisted Living Center in Jackson, MI. Basil was born on October 11, 1935 in Dansville, MI to John and Vera (Lockwood) Lance.

Basil lived in Dansville and Chelsea for most of his life. After years apart, Basil and his high school sweetheart, Patty Grambau, reconnected in 1987 and spent the next 34 years together. They traveled, had weekly dinner dates, and were always known to love an ice cream sundae (but one for each of them-there was no sharing!) Basil was an enthusiastic Spartan fan, spending many of his days in intense moments of fellowship with Patty, an equally enthusiastic Michigan fan. Basil was a dedicated gardener for most of his adult life, spending hours on his crops, especially the tomatoes. He also loved to hunt and fish, finding peace in exploring. Basil’s greatest joy, however, was in spending time with his children and grandchildren, whom he was immensely proud of. It was a rare day that you wouldn’t hear stories about his children or grandchildren. Though quiet and unassuming by nature, Basil was a big teaser, and you knew he loved you if he was teasing you.

Basil will be deeply missed by his family, sons: Kurt (Margo Hoogstraten) Lance, Doug (Cindy) Lance, Mark (Sandy) Grambau, and Mike Grambau; daughter, Jenny (Robbie) Marshall; grandchildren: Nate Lance, Clayton (Kayla) Lance, Cassie (Josh) Watson, Barb (Misti) Lance, Isaac Lance, Kaedin Hoxey, Kai Hoxey, Joel (Jennifer) Grambau, Melissa (Mark) Garcia, Jake (Jessie) Grambau; great-grandchildren: Danika Lance, Melody Lance, Ezra Watson, Isabel Watson, Leigh Lance-Stevens, Miller Grambau, Tatum Grambau, Harper Grambau, Madden Grambau, Hazel Garcia, Josie Grambau, Jaclyn Grambau. He was preceded in death by his longtime love, Patricia Grambau.

Cremation has taken place and celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.