Basil L. Ringler

Basil Leroy Ringler, age 92, from Cedar Springs Michigan went to be with his Lord and Savior after a long and difficult illness. Basil, warrior, pro-union fighter, member of the Knights of Columbus, husband and father passed on 08/16/24. He died fighting for his life as he fought to free the country of South Korea. A three-time recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, he witnessed things that nobody else should. He was a caring man who helped others as he once cared for a fellow soldier from Michigan. After the battle of Heartbreak Ridge, he united with a friend from West Michigan who was one of the four survivors of his unit. The battle paralyzed his friend due to severe “shell shock”. Basil drove his friend through Chicago to take him home to West Michigan. Basil met the love of his life, Betty, when he had come back from the war and had gone out square dancing with friends. He thought she was the most beautiful girl at the dance and soon they were married. Basil was preceded in death by Betty on April 4, 2016. Basil had a lot of hobbies he truly enjoyed. One being refurbishing old cars; a 1940 and 1949 Packard, a 1968 Cougar to name a few. Basil loved fishing, camping, the Tigers, NASCAR, playing Skip-bo. Basil was known by many throughout Cedar Springs. He had volunteered to coach Little League even after his sons were grown. The local community cared about him and continually asked about his welfare.

Basil is survived by his sister, Helen Woodard, his children; Janice (Mike) DeGraaf, Karen (Jeff) Sixbury, Douglas (Darlene) Ringler, Steve (Lisa) Ringler, Bruce Ringler and Christopher Ringler. He had 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 3 great, great-grandchildren.

The family will meet with friends Wednesday, August 21 from 4-7 pm at K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs. A graveside service will be held 11:00 am Thursday, August 22, 2024 at Sand Lake Cemetery. Rev. Fr. Lam Le officiating along with the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard.