Michelle Serto Basel, 76, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at her residence.
Born in Kenosha on April 1, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Ferdinand and Minnie (Johnson) Serto. Michelle lived a life defined by intelligence, determination, and deep devotion to her family and community. She was the first female valedictorian of St. Joseph High School, graduating in 1967, and went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Science Accounting Degree from Georgetown University. A trailblazer in her field, she started her career at Price Waterhouse, followed by Fiat Allis and Tri-Clover, and became the first female Certified Public Accountant in Kenosha. She went on to start her own CPA firm, earning the respect and trust of all who worked with her.
Michelle was actively involved in the Quota Club and the Ladies Society of Mt. Carmel, giving generously of her time and heart to her community. “Mickey” worked on the stage crew at St. Joseph High School, sparking a lifelong appreciation for theater that she shared with her family. She also enjoyed playing bridge, traveling, and gathering with those she loved. She especially loved traveling to Italy, embracing the culture and language, and forming a deep connection with the country and her relatives.
On October 11, 1991, she married the love of her life, John Basel. Together, they built a life centered on family, friendship, and a shared love of travel, creating memories that spanned far beyond home. Michelle and John were able to travel the world together and provide that opportunity for their children and grandchildren.
Michelle will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, and the quiet, steady way she showed up for others. Her legacy lives on in her family and in the many lives she touched. Michelle’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother and a proud “Nonna” to her grandchildren, Amelia and Owen Christopher, who brought her endless happiness.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Amy Basel and Mary Basel Christopher (Alexander Christopher); as well as her sister, Rosemary (Thomas) Aiello; nieces, Angela Aiello, Erin Genrich (GK Darby) and Meredith Genrich (Craig Mertes); and nephews, Patrick (Sarah) Aiello and Michael (Samantha) Aiello; and many great nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, John, and her parents, Ferd and Minnie Serto.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Piasecki Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 p.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, 1919 54th Street, Kenosha. Inurnment will follow in All Saints Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her memory to St. Joseph Catholic Academy, 2401 69th St, Kenosha, WI 53143, https:
