Carole Rose Basile, age 90, passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home on June 6, 2026.
Born on December 24, 1935, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, she was the daughter of Everett J. Wamser and Rose J. Wamser, both of whom preceded her in death. She lived a life defined by love, dedication to family, creativity, and quiet strength. In her youth, she attended St. Rose of Lima Grade School and was a majorette at Cathedral High School, an early reflection of her poise, energy, and spirited presence that would characterize her throughout her life. She also studied at Marquette University.
Family was the center of her life and her greatest source of pride and joy. As a young mother and grandmother, she enjoyed participating in many activities with her family, such as ice skating, skiing, tennis, biking, golfing, swimming and other sporting events, creating cherished memories and adventures with her family. She had a deep love of travel and a true sense of wanderlust, which ultimately became both a personal passion and a professional pursuit. She owned and operated her own travel agency for 20 years, helping others explore the world while continuing to nurture her own love of discovery and new experiences.
She also had a deep love of gardening. With remarkable dedication and skill, she cultivated abundant gardens with the help of her family, that, for several years, provided much of the vegetables her family enjoyed.
She was a constant and dependable presence for her family, even during difficult periods. She showed up consistently and without hesitation whenever it was needed most.
She shared many meaningful moments with her husband, Ken, especially sitting together and enjoying a cocktail. These simple times reflected the companionship, comfort, and shared life they built together.
She also had a deep affection for all the family dogs throughout the years, enjoying their companionship and the joy they brought for her.
She participated in couples’ card clubs for many decades, forming lasting friendships and sharing countless evenings of laughter and camaraderie. She also bowled in both couples and single leagues for many years and enjoyed the friendly competition and social connection those leagues provided. In addition, she was part of a gourmet dinner club, where she shared her love of cooking and enjoyed gathering with friends over thoughtfully prepared meals.
One of her greatest pleasures was attending her grandchildren’s events, where she could often be found enthusiastically cheering from the sidelines. Her pride in her family was constant and unwavering.
She was an exceptional seamstress, crocheter and knitter, whose talent and craftsmanship were admired by all who knew her. She lovingly made many of her own clothes as well as clothing for her family, creating garments that reflected both her skill and her clothing passion. From everyday outfits to beautiful formal attire, her sewing projects were expressions of creativity, patience, and love. As part of her community service with the Junior League, Carole also taught sewing techniques to young adults with developmental disabilities.
She was also a gifted baker who’s German Stollen became a cherished family tradition. Holidays were made special by the cookies, pies, Christmas treats, and seasonal delicacies she lovingly prepared. Family gatherings were often centered around her kitchen and dining table, where love was shared through food, conversation, and laughter.
Known for her warmth, grace, and welcoming nature, she created a home where family and friends always felt welcome. She was also famously stubborn and mischievous at times, qualities that brought humor, spark, and personality to her life and made her even more memorable to those who knew her. Her life reflected a balance of devotion, creativity, adventure, social connection, and spirited independence.
In addition to husband Ken, she is survived by son, Jeffery Basile and daughters Stacie Glaser (John) and Kelly Vieaux (Bryan); nine grandchildren: Rebecca Basile (Jessica), Julia Basile (Darren), Monica Glaser, Michael Glaser, Maria Glaser, Alexzandria Vieaux, Chase Vieaux, Gabriella Vieaux and Isabella Vieaux.
Carole was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church with the last 41 years as an active parishioner of St. John Vianney Catholic Church. Her faith was important to her, and she found comfort and community in her parish throughout her life.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, tradition, and generosity that will continue through the generations she so deeply cherished.
Her family wishes to acknowledge the compassionate care provided by the St. Camillus Home Health Services.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Catholic Charities of Milwaukee. (https://www.ccmke.org/Catholic-Charities/AboutUs/Offices--Service-Sites.htm/)
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 12th from 10:00 am until the time of funeral service at 11:00 am at Schmidt and Bartelt Funeral Home (10121 W. North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53226)