BASIL HETH

Funeral services for Basil Heth, Jr., 76, of Wagner were held Friday, September 22 at the Marty Community Center in Marty. Burial was in the Greenwood Presbyterian Cemetery in rural Greenwood, with military honors. Peters Funeral Home of Wagner were in charge of arrangements.

Basil Mark Heth Jr. was born on October 16, 1946 to Mildred Blacksmith and Basil Heth Sr. in Wagner. Basil died Sunday, September 17, 2023 at the VA Medical Center in Sioux Falls. Basil was the eldest of 13 siblings and was raised in Greenwood. Basil attended grade school in Springfield. He graduated high school in Flandreau, as the salutatorian in 1965.

While attending school in Flandreau, he met the love of his life, Linda (Greeley) Heth. They joined together in marriage August 3, 1966. They had 11 children together. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He completed many honorable missions and earned numerous awards.

Basil had a variety of jobs over the years. He worked as a maintenance worker, UPS delivery driver, and a shuttle driver. He also operated “Kim’s Convenience” in Marty. Basil also played fast pitch softball for the Marty Renegades.

Basil enjoyed attending Powwows, hanging out with “his crew,” hunting and fishing. He could visit for hours with just about anybody. He was always there for anybody who needed a helping hand, but most importantly, he treasured all of his children and grandchildren.

Basil is survived by his daughter Ashley Heth of Greenwood; his sons: Bryan (Lisa) Heth, Michael Heth, both of Wagner; Eric (Cely) Heth of St. Joseph, MO; Austin (Christa) Heth, Desmond (Dotsy) Heth, Adam (LaRon) Heth, and Wade Heth, all of Greenwood.

Basil is preceded in death by his lovely wife Lisa Heth; his daughters: Kimberly and Marla; his son Mark; his parents Mildred Blacksmith and Basil Heth Sr.; his maternal and paternal grandparents; his great-grandson Brycen; his great granddaughter Eryn; many other relatives. He will be missed dearly.

Basil was a proud United States Marine Corp Veteran. He was assigned crew-chief and gunner to the Marines CH-46A Sea Knight, side number EP-1, bureau #151951 helicopter. This helicopter was one of about twenty other helicopters that made up Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265. It was attached to Marine Air Group 16 and later 36, which in turn was attached to the 1st Marine Air Wing, Fleet Marine Force, West Pacific. Basil remained with this gallant bird for 15 months. He had logged over 1,100 missions with his crew and he flew 1,306 total combat missions. He was proudly presented a total of 66 Air Medals; 65 Air Medals and a Single Mission Award. This will attest to the reliability and air worthiness of this “ole bird,” as well as the bravery of pilots and crew to go above and beyond. They were forced down by hostile gun fire on two occasions. Basil flew his last mission of December 8, 1968. He was on the “Freedom Bird” out of Danang on December 12, 1968. His total tour in country was 19 months and 27 days.