Joseph Basta, Jr.

Joseph Basta, Jr. passed away peacefully on July 12, 2022.

Joe was born August 3, 1935, in Kellogg, ID, to his Italian immigrant parents, Joseph Sr. and Rosie (Calabretta) Basta. His family subsequently moved to Walla Walla, where Joe attended local schools, graduating from St. Patrick High School in 1953.

Not long after high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Walla Walla and began working at Continental Can Co., where he spent his entire working career.

He married Patricia Lee Jensen on February 22, 1964, in Walla Walla; together, they lovingly raised three devoted daughters.

Among Joe’s many hobbies were adventuring on road trips with Patty, doing handyman projects such as refinishing furniture, playing poker, and gardening. Through the years, he became particularly known for his beautiful petunia bed that he planted every year for the past several decades.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Patty; his parents, Rosie and Joseph Basta, Sr.; his sisters Nesta and Pauline; and his brother Tony. He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Pam and Dominick Elia, Debra and Roland Erikson, and Karen and Darren Henrich. Joe and Patty were wonderful grandparents to eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

His life was a model of devotion to family and home. The loss of Joe is felt deeply throughout the lives of his whole family. He was cherished and truly loved.

A graveside service will be held Monday, July 18, 2022, at 2:30 p.m., in the Memorial Garden at Mountain View Cemetery, with Father Pat Kerst officiating. Reception to follow at St. Francis Assisi Parish Hall.

Donations may be made to the St. Mary Regional Cancer Center through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder St., Walla Walla, WA 99362. Guests may sign the guest book at www.herringgroseclose.com.