DODGE CITY, KS – Basil G. Dowse, 96, transitioned peacefully from this life on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at his home with his two daughters by his side. He was born on September 10, 1930, in Montezuma, KS, the son of Harold L. Dowse and Pearl M. (Kimler) Dowse.

He attended schools in a variety of places during his childhood including Kansas, Colorado, and California. On July 4, 1964, he married Linda L. Rarden in Copeland, KS. They made their home and raised a family in Copeland, residing there until moving to Dodge City in 1990 to be near their daughters. They were married 56 years before Linda preceded him in death in 2021.

Basil was always a hard worker and worked until his early 80’s. He could work circles around his younger co-workers. He had a wide array of occupations throughout his life. These included working in a sawmill, being a cowboy, general mechanic, and truck driver.

He enjoyed making beautiful creations out of wood. All were crafted with love and attention to detail. He could see something at a craft show and go home and make it. Basil loved the smell of wood and said woodworking was his relief from the worries of life. He was also a “Mr. Fix-it,” being able to fix or repair almost anything. He took pride in his home, tools, and vehicles always keeping everything pristine.

Survivors include daughters, April Fields and husband Tim, and Justine Carlson and husband Dustin, all of Dodge City; a brother Malen “Butch” Dowse of Topeka, KS; a granddaughter, Amber Caton and husband Preston; a grandson; three great-grandchildren, Arsyn, Lee, and Amelia; one nephew, Jason Dowse and wife Sue, and half-sister, Georgann Villee and husband Stuart.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, sister-in-law, Marilyn Dowse, nephew, Scott Dowse, and an infant sister.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 pm Saturday, October 24, 2026 at the Copeland Cemetery, Copeland, with Doug Harris officiating. There will be no public viewing, cremation has taken place.

Memorials can be made to the Copeland Cemetery Fund, in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, KS 67801.