Obituary of Truman Walter Bassett

Truman Walter Bassett, of Trumbull passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, at the age of 84. A man of quiet strength, integrity, and kindness, he leaves behind a legacy of love, ingenuity, and deep family devotion.

Born and raised in Wilton, Truman was the son of the late Walter Woosley Bassett and Helen Adelaide Bassett. He graduated from the Bridgeport Engineering Institute, now part of Fairfield University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. A lifelong entrepreneur with an inventive spirit, he co-founded a manufacturing company with his partner Jack McSweeney. What began as an electronic assembly venture under the name "Trumac" evolved into a major turbine diffuser operation—becoming one of the most successful businesses of its kind in North America.

Outside of work, Truman had a deep passion for genealogy. He traced his family's lineage back to the Revolutionary War and was a proud member of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR). He believed deeply in honoring history and preserving the stories that shape who we are.

While he spent most of his life in Trumbull, Truman especially cherished time at his summer home in Old Lyme. He found joy in simple things: quiet mornings by the water, family gatherings, ping pong, tennis and a good dessert—especially cookies, which he never once turned down.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Plassmann Bassett; his sister Carolyn Krenz, and three children: Susan Preis (Gavin) of California, Brian Bassett (Kim) of Oxford, and Betsy Hopwood (Mark) of Florida. He was the proud grandfather of Megan and Saumya Goel-Preis, Courtney Preis, Benjamin Bassett, William Bassett, Jonathan Bassett, Emily Bassett, Sawyer Hopwood, Rose Hopwood, and Levi Hopwood. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Liliana and Joseph Truman, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Truman will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for his gentle kindness, unwavering integrity, and generous heart. He was a man who quietly made the world better just by being in it. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family extends heart felt gratitude to Denise Buckley and Claudia Fortunato for their compassionate care during the last year.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, located at 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull, CT. The funeral will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lakewood-Trumbull YMCA, in support of Chronic Disease Programs. https://ymcaccc.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product/Guest?GuestID=97&ActivityID=145921&CampaignerID=5824