Fred Alan Bassler

Fred Alan Bassler, of Dillsburg, went home to be with his Savior Jesus Christ Feb. 15, 2022.

Fred was born March 16, 1947, in Altoona. Chester Irvin and Ora Susan (Foor) Bassler adopted him at six days old and provided all of the love, support, and devotion that he needed. Fred grew up in Woodbury, where he would meet his wife of 52 years, Cheryl Lynn (Guyer) Bassler.

Fred is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Cheryl Lynn Bassler; his two daughters: Samantha Bassler (Eric Bintner) of Brooklyn, NY, and Anna McCauslin (Chad) of Dillsburg; and his two grandchildren: Bianca and Rory McCauslin, also of Dillsburg and several nieces and nephews.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents and his only brother Gary C. Bassler and wife Linda.

Fred graduated from Northern Bedford High School in 1965 and before completing college was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He spent two years in the army, earning the Bronze Star with Valor. He was in the 199th Light Infantry Division and served as a Staff Sergeant and was in charge of a Battalion of 44 men.

After his honorable discharge, Fred married Cheryl July 26, 1969, and studied computer science at The Pennsylvania State University. He was the first of his family to graduate with a college degree and had a long and successful career in computers. Fred was responsible for mentoring the leadership team for the Windchill family of products, a lifecycle management tool which was used by many of the largest companies all over the world. Fred traveled extensively for work, and a little for pleasure, as he and Cheryl built their life together. Fred loved his work and received many awards and accolades in his field.

Fred had many interests, including getting his private pilot’s license, skiing, hunting and golfing to name a few. He was very involved in the churches he attended, serving in various capacities as a deacon and elder, as well as teaching Sunday School. For the past 15 years, Fred had been a member of Immanuel Alliance Church in Mechanicsburg. He was also a member of the N.R.A., V.F.W, American Legion and the A.O.P.A. (Aircraft Owners and Pilot Assoc.).

After many years of marriage, Fred and Cheryl welcomed two spirited daughters into their family, Samantha Elizabeth and Anna Lynn. Fred enjoyed spending time with his daughters, taking part in Indian Princesses, a program designed to help fathers bond with their daughters. Though he traveled most days of the week during their childhood, Fred was sure to influence his daughters. He required them both to memorize two books of the Bible before obtaining their drivers permit. He took pride in their accomplishments, especially when Samantha and Anna graduated from college, both earned Masters degrees, and Samantha’s doctorate.

Fred was particularly fond of his two grandchildren, Bianca and Rory. He loved to hear Bianca’s voice when she would visit and talk to him during his illness, and enjoyed watching Rory play ice hockey. He was happiest when both grandchildren would sit beside him on the couch, watch TV and enjoy his favorite snacks. Though tough on the exterior, Fred would cry tears of joy hearing his grandchildren sing praise songs and hymns at church.

After retirement, Fred served as a trustee at the Crystal Spring Camp Meeting in Crystal Spring. He enjoyed visiting with family and friends, listening to a great sermon, and singing old time hymns during camp meeting. Fred also loved an audience, telling many corny jokes and giving many special people nicknames.

Fred will be buried in his hometown of Woodbury during a private service for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to his church at the above address or the Crystal Spring Camp Meeting Assoc., c/o Jason Bryant, 1030 N. Breezewood Rd., Breezewood, PA 15533.