Baskette, Micheal R.

Micheal R. Baskette passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2020.

 

Mike enriched so many of our lives. First and foremost, Mike was a devoted man of family and faith. For 47 years, he and Emily shared their hopes, dreams, challenges and successes with spirit, faith and commitment. Together, their enthusiasm for life affected all with whom they engaged.  Whether it be their beloved church, family or community - their marriage was an inspiration.

 

Mike was the son of Frank and Alma Baskette. Through the influence of his parents, Mike internalized a can-do spirit and determination that carried throughout his entire life. 

 

A 1970 graduate of Chattanooga Central High School, Mike received many honors and recognitions. The foundation of his vast circle of friends was launched while he attended Central. Many of those friendships were lifelong. Leadership took shape in high school - where he was a senior officer in Central’s ROTC, president of High-Y and senior class superlative. 

 

Mike earned his B.S. in Psychology from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. While at UTC, Mike was welcomed into his cherished fraternity – Sigma Chi. The Brothers of Sigma Chi, Delta Theta Chapter, active and alumni, have been stalwarts in their embrace of Emily and the entire Baskette family (his brothers Patrick and Brian are also members of Sigma Chi). The brotherhood shaped and directed Mike’s life and inspired him throughout adulthood. Mike learned the value of volunteering for a plethora of charity causes, supporting those in need and the fidelity of friendship, responsibility and leadership. He served in numerous leadership positions while as an active and as an alum. The bonds of Sigma Chi Brotherhood enveloped the entire Baskette family and gave us comfort and hope throughout Mike’s battle with COVID-19.

 

His degree well-served his business career in marketing, management, and sales. At the time of his passing, Mike was the senior vice president for sales at Plainview|LED. Todd Plain and the entire staff at Plainview|LED have been an immense source of support to Emily during these heartbreaking times. We thank you, Todd and the entire Plainview|LED family. 

 

A man of faith, Mike was baptized at Second Presbyterian Church. In later years, he and Emily converted to Catholicism. Their parish, St. Jude Catholic Church, was a constant source of comfort and direction. We especially thank Father Charlie Burton for his caring and sincere support along with the entire parish. We also cannot overstate the bonds of friendship between Mike and Father John Dowling. Their life-long friendship began as teens and continued throughout the entirety of Mike’s life. Father John assisted in saving Mike’s life on the Nantahala River while they were in college. He spent many hours with Emily and Mike’s beloved daughter, Melissa, to lend comfort and prayers during this difficult time. You are always in our hearts, Father John. 

 

As a dedicated Republican, he befriended many candidates and elected officials – many of whom became life-long friends. His family and friends encouraged Mike to seek office many times, but he preferred to work humbly behind-the-scenes to support those he believed in. 

 

Mike’s legacy is monumental. He was a current member of the Hamilton County Republican Party, Pachyderm Club, Police Citizens Internal Affairs, Friends of Hixson, Life Loyal Sigma

Chi, Knights of Columbus - Council 8576, Home Builders Association, Pink Heals and The NRA.

Mike was a fierce fan of the New York Yankees, the UT Vols, and the UTC Mocs. He was dedicated to the support of Law Enforcement and our military. He would stand for the flag, and kneel for the Lord. 

 

Mike is survived by his wonderful bride of 47 years, Emily; son, Matthew; daughter, Melissa (aka “Little E” and Melba); brother, Patrick (Peggy) of Tampa, FL; nieces, Mary Elizabeth and Isabelle; brother, Brian (Holly) of Suwanee, GA; sister, Sandy Snyder Downer; granddaughters, Hannah Grace (HG) Baskette-Skiles, Allie Nicole (Allie B) Baskette-Skiles, and Natalie Downer-Bigham; uncle, Gene (Myrna) Baskette of Jackson, TN. He also left behind many close friends to honor his legacy.

 

Mike “Pop” Baskette fought the good fight. He enriched all who knew and loved him. He inspired honor and distinction in us all.

 

Mike Strong. Forever. 

 

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Chattanooga Area Sigma Chi Alumni Association and/or St. Jude Catholic Church in Chattanooga.

 

Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, 423 531-3975.