Michaleen Frances Basham
Michaleen Frances Basham (née Balka), 77, of Dawson Springs, Ky., formerly of Chardon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, in Madisonville, Ky.
Born on July 15, 1948, in Hammond, Ind., she was the daughter of William and Stephany (née Gurnak) Balka.
In August of 1971, she married the love of her life, Charles Basham. They shared 45 wonderful years of marriage before his passing.
Michaleen began her career as a therapist and later retired as an office administrator for Dr. Urbancic’s Family Care.
She had a deep love of reading and was rarely seen without a romance novel in hand. A passionate writer, she participated in a writer’s club in Chardon with close friends, where they gathered regularly in one another’s homes to write and share stories and enjoy each other’s company.
Known for her warm personality and spirited opinions, Michaleen never met a stranger and always welcomed conversation. She also developed a talent for stained glass artistry, creating beautiful pieces that she proudly sold alongside friends at The Great Lakes Medieval Faire for many years.
Michaleen loved cooking and especially cherished hosting Thanksgiving dinner for her family. Every holiday season could count on her enjoying the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade followed by the National Dog Show, traditions she held dear.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Stephany Balka; her husband, Charles Basham; and her grandchildren, Alex Colgan, Travis Colgan and “Little Bug” Colgan.
She is survived by her daughters, Catherine (Steven) Colgan, of Ohio, and Rebecca (Carl Self) Basham, of Michigan; her son, Mathew (Sonja) Basham, of Ohio; and her sister, Jonette (William) Boggs, of Kentucky; and seven beloved grandchildren.
Visitation will be held May 26, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 12 noon, at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon, with a funeral service beginning at 12 noon. Following the service, burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery with a graveside committal service.
Arrangements are entrusted to The Original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
