Mary Ann Basler, a lifetime resident of Washington County, died on August 30, 2010 at Sterling Regional Medical Center with her family at her side.

Mary Ann Charlene Hottinger was born to Charles Joseph and Philomene Elizabeth (Mehring) Hottinger, three and a half miles southwest of Akron on June 9, 1936. She attended rural schools and graduated from Akron High School with the class of 1954. She worked at Schafer Drug and later at the Akron Variety store; renting a room in town from John and Ruth Cain. She married the love of her life, Leo A. Basler, on November 26 1955 at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church. They farmed Southwest of Akron until moving into town in the fall of 2000. As a life time member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Mary Ann taught religion classes for many years, was a member of the Altar & Rosary Society, and was always ready to help out with the dinners and bazaars.

Mary Ann was most proud of the Honorary Chapter plaque she received for countless hours of mending and repairing shop coveralls for the Akron FFA Chapter. Her hobbies included: raising a large garden, canning and freezing, playing the piano, sewing, painting shirts, ceramics and reading. Her greatest joys in life were her children and grand children; always interested in what they were doing and so proud of their accomplishments. Despite a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis in the early 80's, Mary Ann always kept a positive attitude and a smile on her face.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Philomene; her sister, Joyce Erickson; brother-in-law, Bob Deaver; Son-in-Law, Tom Frank; and granddaughter, Alaina Marie Slusser. Surviving her are her husband Leo; children Mary Lee (Donny), Susan, Ed (Les), Pat (Tracy), Carol (Rob), Janice (Brian), Dan (Laura), Alan (Shantil), 21 grand children, three great grand children; two sisters Virginia Hottinger, and Pat Deaver; two brothers Ray (Marcella), and Gene (Marjie) Hottinger and brother-in-law Jess Erickson.

Vigil and Prayer Service was held on September 3, 2010 at 7:00pm and Mass of Christian Burial on September 4, 2010 at 10:00am from St. Joseph's Church, with interment as St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph's Altar and Rosary Society, the Akron Public Library, or to the donor's choice. Brenner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.