Basil Gordon Witt

Basil Witt was born May 27, 1938 in San Francisco as the youngest of 4 children to George & Beatrice Mary Witt (Wall). After spending his early years in Menlo Park, his family moved to Australia, Connecticut, Seattle, eventually settling in West L.A. and Pacific Palisades, where Basil attended University High School. It was there that he fell in love with his high school sweetheart, Judi. Out of high school, Basil enlisted in the US Army’s Reserve program.

Basil & Judi married in Los Angeles in 1960, while Basil was attending UCLA and working several jobs. His favorite was running Dilly’s Ice Cream Shop in Pacific Palisades & likely where his lifelong love of ice cream began. He settled into his career as a Securities Trader with Seidler, Arnett & Spillane and moved his growing family first to Westlake Village, then eventually to Balboa Island. After taking a job at Bateman Eichler Hill Richards in Downtown L.A., La Cañada Flintridge became home until 1996, when he retired from Pacific Brokerage Service & the beach once again beckoned. He and Judi purchased their dream home on Little Balboa Island, which Basil and his close friend spent 4 years renovating.

Basil was an avid boater and sailor, finding peace and happiness on the water. His annual sailing trip to Catalina with family & friends was something he looked forward to each year, along with his birthday fly fishing trip with his buddies. He was an excellent snow skier, teaching his sisters, wife, kids and grandkids how to ski as well as anyone else who wanted to learn. He was a bowler, golfer & a classic car enthusiast. He and Judi enjoyed spending time on the road in their restored RV they owned with their dear friends. Basil was known for his love of animals & his rescue of many pets over the years. He always had a dog by his side, often in the passenger seat or beside him at the helm of the boat. He stayed very busy, believing he should take advantage of each day & never take life for granted. He loved a good adventure and had many over the years. Even unforeseen events were met with optimism and a sense of adventure.

After a brave battle with blood cancer, Basil passed away at home on July 17, 2024, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Judi & their 6 children— Craig (Lisa), Christopher, Steve (Leslee), Diana (Robert Oyster), Jason and Hayley (Steve Nester). His memory lives on in his 15 grandchildren, & 7 great grandchildren whom he loved dearly. He also leaves behind his sister Barbara, whom he cared for so loyally.

Basil will be remembered for his amazing work ethic & attention to detail, his sense of humor, and his eagerness to help family & friends.

*CASUAL COASTAL ATTIRE*