James Dale Basham

James “Jim” D. Basham, 73, of Eau Claire, left this life to go meet Jesus on Wednesday, August 16, 2017.  Celebration of Life Service will be held at 6:00 PM, on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at Friends In Faith Community Church, 6550 Keigley St., Eau Claire. Pastor Tom Spitters will be sharing Jim’s amazing testimony, and telling about the hope, peace and joy Jim found in his final months.  Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at the church. There will be a service at 6:00 PM, followed by a full meal – we all know Jim’s love language was sharing good food with people. Burial will be at Shanghai Cemetery in Eau Claire at a later date. Jim had become a much-loved part of the church family at Friends In Faith Community Church, and it would have made him happy for memorial donations to be given to the church in his honor. The Caring Circle Hospice was also a great blessing to Jim, and memorials may also be given to their organization. Those wishing to sign Jim’s guestbook may do so online at www.starks-menchinger.com.   Jim was born July 1, 1944 in Mishawaka, IN to James and Eleanor (Stark) Basham. On August 29, 1963, he married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Karen Garlanger, in Dowagiac. He worked for Clark Equipment for 17 years before starting his own business, Basham Painting, which he and Karen ran together for 40 years. Jim and Karen often told people they were fortunate to love what they did for a living, and their skill as painters was widely respected.  Jim loved cooking and grilling and was known for his pickles, grilled chicken, beef jerky and many other creations.  He enjoyed spending time outdoors mushroom hunting, fishing and playing golf. Jim was a generous, loyal friend and was loved by all who knew him.   Jim is survived by his loving wife Karen Basham; children Kurt (Heather) Basham; Krista (Brian) Meyer; grandchildren, Alex (Courtney), Hannah (Jonny), Noah, Isaac, Sam and Ben; brothers, Gerald (Jeanne) Basham, John (Debra) Basham, Jack (Cindy) Basham and Gregory Basham; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.   He was preceded in death by his parents.