John Bassett Jr.

John William Bassett Jr., 79, of Rutland, passed away at Rutland Regional Medical Center on June 29, 2026. He was born in Rutland, Vermont, on November 26, 1946, to John and Dorothy (Hesse) Bassett Sr.

John proudly served in the United States Navy for four years, including two years of active duty in Vietnam, where he received the Vietnam Service Medal with a bronze service star.

John may be remembered by many from the show Chasing Tail, a hunting show that aired on The History Channel in 2013. He was affectionately called the “Yoda” of deer camp by his co-stars and was known as the best tracker of the group. When the weather kept him indoors, John could often be found playing cards or chess.

John is survived by his sons, Jonah Bassett, Jay Bassett, and Jesse Bassett; his brother, Jim Bassett; his grandson, Jonah Bassett Jr.; his niece, Nichole Bassett; and extended family.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Dorothy Bassett, and his brother, Jack Bassett.

Visiting hours will be held at Clifford Funeral Home on July 18, 2026 beginning at 12:00pm and concluding with military honors provided by the United States Navy Honor Guard at 2:00p.m.