Shirley Baskett

Shirley Ann Baskett of Fort Collins went to rest with the Lord on March 9, 2011 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Shirley was born on March 26, 1931 in Great Falls, Montana to Henry and Helen Cottle. She grew up in the small town of Augusta, Montana which she always credited with having the greatest rodeo. While Shirley was still in high school she became a stunt pilot of an open cockpit bi-plane. Shirley carried that independent spirit throughout her entire life. Shirley graduated from Montana State University in 1953 with a degree in business. On June 18th 1950, Shirley married John Leslie Baskett. They were married for 47 years when John passed away in 1997. John's work as a civil engineer required them to relocate several times during his career. Over the course of their marriage they moved from South Dakota, to Pennsylvania to the Bahamas, to Oregon and ultimately to Fort Collins. Shirley had spent most of her life as a home maker until moving to Fort Collins in 1974. Shirley went to work managing Julian's in downtown Fort Collins and later she co-owned a bridal store for a number of years with a close friend. Upon retiring, Shirley enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, reading, bowling and especially spending time with her grandchildren. Shirley appreciated the arts her entire life and was a dedicated volunteer for both the Canyon Concert Ballet Company and the Fort Collins Symphony Guild, serving in varying capacities for both organizations. Shirley is survived by her sister Beverly Allen (Buck) of Augusta, Montana, her children, John L. Baskett Jr. (Charlotte) of Casper, Wyoming and Andrea Faucett (Mike) of Fort Collins, her grandchildren Tyler Faucett and Michelle Faucett of Fort Collins, Carrie Price of Billings, Montana, Chris Nace of Gray, Louisiana. A Memorial Service will be held at Faith Evangelical Free Church at 11:00 am on Tuesday March 15th, which is located at 3920 S. Shields Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pathways Hospice in care of Goes Funeral Care.